Washington State Reports 38 Cyclosporiasis Cases Amid National Outbreak; No Local Source Identified

OLYMPIA, Wash. (GovOneStop.com) — Washington State health officials are closely monitoring cyclosporiasis cases as a nationwide outbreak of the intestinal illness continues to expand. As of July 17, 2026, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has reported 38 cases statewide since May 1, with one hospitalization and no deaths. The majority of cases in Washington are associated with recent international travel, and there is no evidence of a local outbreak or contaminated food source within the state.

Most Washington Cases Linked to Mexico Travel

According to the official DOH outbreak report, 75 percent of the 36 interviewed cases had traveled to countries where cyclosporiasis is endemic, 88.8% (24/27) reported travel to Mexico. Of the remaining cases, several involved travel to other U.S. states experiencing outbreaks, and only two individuals had not traveled outside Washington. Three cases with exposure in Washington and Oregon remain under investigation, but no common food source has been identified.

No Local Outbreak or Food Source Identified

While a large multistate outbreak has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms and served at Taco Bell restaurants in several states, Washington is not part of that cluster. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have identified over 7,000 cases nationwide, but Washington’s cases remain primarily travel-associated. Health officials emphasize that there is no evidence of a contaminated food item or local transmission within the state.

What is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. It spreads through ingestion of food or water contaminated with feces containing the parasite. Person-to-person transmission is rare. Symptoms typically begin about a week after exposure and include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, weight loss, and fatigue. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks or months.

The CDC recommends treatment with the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), sold under brand names such as Bactrim or Septra. Those experiencing persistent diarrhea or other symptoms should contact their healthcare provider and mention possible cyclosporiasis, as specific stool tests are required for diagnosis.

Prevention and Public Health Guidance

The DOH advises all residents to follow routine produce safety practices, including rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking. While standard washing may not remove all Cyclospora parasites, these steps help reduce risk from other foodborne pathogens. Individuals at higher risk—such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems—should be especially cautious with raw produce.

If you develop symptoms of cyclosporiasis, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Suspected foodborne illness or unsafe food handling practices can be reported through the Foodborne Illness Notification System (FINS).

Ongoing Investigation and Resources

Washington health officials continue to monitor and investigate any new cases, working with local and federal partners to ensure public safety. There is currently no advisory against consuming lettuce or other produce in Washington, but residents are encouraged to stay informed as the situation evolves.

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Summary Table: Cyclosporiasis in Washington State (May 1 – July 17, 2026)