Cyclosporiasis cases are on the rise in some parts of the country. Most outbreaks of cyclosporiasis, an illness characterized by watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and low-grade fever, are linked to fresh produce grown with water contaminated by the Cyclospora parasite.

Virginia sees cases of cyclosporiasis every year, mostly in the spring and summer. All laboratory-confirmed cases are reported to their local Health Department, where a full investigation, including a detailed food history, is conducted. The most recent case counts can be found on the Virginia Department of Health’s dashboard. 

The Health Department recommends that everyone:

• Wash fruits and vegetables
• Wash your hands thoroughly
• Avoid eating uncooked fruits and vegetables when traveling

 Learn more at VDH Fact Sheet.