North Carolina reports more than 300 cyclosporiasis cases as health officials investigate source
RALEIGH, N.C. (WWAY) — North Carolina health officials are continuing to investigate a sharp increase in cyclosporiasis cases across the state and are urging residents and restaurants to take precautions when handling fresh produce.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), working with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) and local health departments, is investigating potential sources of the parasite linked to ingredients commonly used in homes and restaurants.
From May 1 through July 14, 307 cases of cyclosporiasis and 13 hospitalizations have been reported statewide. The majority of cases have been identified in Wake County, and officials say the total already exceeds the number of cases reported during all of 2024 and 2025. Case counts will continue to be updated weekly on Tuesdays.
State health officials said the increase in North Carolina cases does not appear to be connected to a multistate outbreak involving Taco Bell. Instead, people diagnosed with the illness have commonly reported consuming parsley, cilantro and lettuce.
Officials cautioned that while those foods have been frequently identified during interviews, they have not been confirmed as the source of the outbreak.
NCDHHS and local health departments are continuing to interview patients to identify common exposures, while NCDA&CS is tracing the reported ingredients through the food supply chain to determine their origin.
Health officials are encouraging restaurants and consumers to use caution when preparing fresh produce. Washing fruits and vegetables may remove some of the parasite but does not guarantee it will be eliminated.
Most foodborne illnesses can be prevented by cooking foods to an internal temperature of 165 degrees, but cyclospora is often associated with foods that are eaten raw. As a precaution, health officials recommend considering removing or thoroughly cooking ingredients such as lettuce, parsley and cilantro if possible.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Symptoms can include prolonged diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue and weight loss.
