Health officials in Georgia are reminding residents to take extra care with food safety as Cyclospora infections increase during the summer. The state usually records its highest number of cases in June and July, which are considered the peak months for the illness.
Cyclospora is a tiny parasite that causes an intestinal infection known as cyclosporiasis. People usually become infected after eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite. Health experts say the illness is most often linked to fresh produce.
The Georgia Department of Public Health says reported Cyclospora cases have increased since 2015. Officials believe part of the increase is due to better laboratory testing, which has improved the ability to detect infections.
The reminder comes as health officials across the United States continue to investigate a rise in Cyclospora cases this year. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1,180 locally acquired infections were reported in 2025 across 38 states. The agency also reported 105 hospitalizations, but no deaths linked to the illness.
Health experts say Cyclospora cases usually begin increasing in May before reaching their highest levels during the summer months. Several states have recently reported more infections than usual, although investigators have not identified one common nationwide source.
In the United States, past outbreaks have often been connected to fresh fruits and vegetables. Foods linked to previous outbreaks include cilantro, basil, leafy greens, and raspberries. Officials say these products can become contaminated before reaching consumers.
The parasite is generally not spread directly from one person to another. Instead, infection usually happens when people eat contaminated food or drink contaminated water.
Symptoms often appear several days after exposure. Many people develop frequent watery diarrhea, which is one of the most common signs of infection. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, and tiredness.
Without proper treatment, symptoms can continue for several weeks or even longer than one month. Health experts recommend seeking medical advice if diarrhea lasts for several days or becomes severe.
Doctors diagnose Cyclospora infection through a specific stool test. Because the parasite is not detected by every routine test, health care providers may need to request additional laboratory testing when Cyclospora is suspected.
In Georgia, Cyclospora is a reportable disease. This means laboratories and health care providers must notify the Georgia Department of Public Health whenever a confirmed case is identified. Reporting helps public health officials monitor cases, investigate outbreaks, and identify possible sources of infection.
Health officials recommend several simple steps to lower the risk of infection. People should wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling fresh produce. Washing hands before eating and after using the bathroom is also important for good hygiene.
Fresh fruits and vegetables should be rinsed under clean running water before eating, cutting, or cooking them. Although washing may not remove every possible contaminant, it can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Officials also advise avoiding food or water that may have been contaminated with human waste. Safe food handling and proper sanitation remain some of the best ways to reduce the spread of foodborne diseases.
Public health experts continue to monitor the rise in Cyclospora cases across the country. Investigations are underway to determine whether any recent infections are connected through a common food source or separate local events.
Georgia health officials encourage residents to stay alert during the summer months, when the risk of infection is highest. Anyone who develops ongoing diarrhea or other symptoms after eating fresh produce should contact a health care provider for testing and treatment.
By following safe food preparation practices and maintaining good hand hygiene, people can help lower their risk of Cyclospora infection while enjoying fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the summer.
