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State officials are monitoring a rise in intestinal parasite cases

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Pennsylvania health officials are urging residents to contact their healthcare providers if they develop symptoms of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, as state and federal agencies continue tracking cases across the country.

The parasite spreads through contaminated food or water and can cause prolonged gastrointestinal illness. As of last week, Pennsylvania had confirmed 28 cases in 2026, including 14 in southeastern Pennsylvania. The state recorded 40 cases throughout 2025.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cases can occur year-round but typically increase during the spring and summer. Between May 1 and June 16, the CDC identified 145 domestically acquired cases across 17 states, including between one and 10 cases in Pennsylvania. Another 45 cases involved people who became infected while traveling outside the United States.

Health officials say the actual number of infections is likely higher because many people recover without seeking medical care or being tested.

Cyclosporiasis affects the small intestine and commonly causes frequent, watery diarrhea that can sometimes be severe. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and low-grade fever.

While the illness is generally not life-threatening, untreated infections can last for more than a month. Since May 1, 23 people nationwide have been hospitalized with the disease.

The CDC is working with state and local health departments to investigate the recent cases and determine whether any are connected to common food sources. So far, officials say there is no evidence linking the 145 domestically acquired cases to a single outbreak, and investigations remain ongoing.

Pennsylvania health officials encourage anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with cyclosporiasis to contact a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible testing.

Unlike many states, Pennsylvania does not require healthcare providers to report cyclosporiasis cases. However, the Department of Health voluntarily collects reports of confirmed infections and shares the information with the CDC each week as officials continue to monitor the illness.

Source: Phila Inquirer

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