Cyclosporiasis Cases Rise in Florida as Health Officials Investigate Potential Source

Florida health officials have confirmed 60 cases of cyclosporiasis so far this year as public health agencies continue investigating a multi-state outbreak linked to a foodborne parasite.

While investigators have identified lettuce or salad greens as a potential source in Michigan, officials have not confirmed a specific product, grower, or supplier responsible for illnesses in Florida.

What We Know About the Outbreak

According to the Florida Department of Health, 60 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported statewide in 2026.

Health officials reported:

• A total of 60 confirmed cases in Florida this year.
• Forty-two cases were reported during June alone.
• Five confirmed cases have been reported in Miami-Dade County.
• Five confirmed cases have been reported in Broward County.

Meanwhile, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced that available evidence suggests lettuce or salad greens may be a potential source of the outbreak in that state. However, investigators emphasized that other food products have not been ruled out.

Officials have not identified a specific brand, distributor, farm, or supplier connected to the illnesses.

What Is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.

People typically become infected after consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite.

Symptoms commonly include:

• Prolonged diarrhea that may last several weeks.
• Abdominal cramping.
• Bloating.
• Loss of appetite.
• Nausea.
• Fatigue.
• Flu-like symptoms.

Although the illness can be severe and debilitating, no deaths associated with the current outbreak have been reported.

How to Reduce Your Risk

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends several steps to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, including:

• Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling produce.
• Rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables under clean running water before eating or preparing them.
• Using a clean produce brush on firm fruits and vegetables.
• Removing bruised or damaged portions of produce.
• Cooking produce when appropriate, as heat is the most reliable way to eliminate the parasite.

While many packaged products are labeled “prewashed,” consumers should continue following safe food-handling practices.

Potential Legal Options for Those Who Become Ill

Foodborne illness outbreaks can sometimes result in legal claims when contaminated food products cause preventable injuries.

Although investigators have not identified a specific source responsible for the Florida cases, individuals who become seriously ill may have legal options if an investigation later determines that contaminated food entered the marketplace because of negligence.

Depending on the circumstances, potentially liable parties could include:

• Food growers.
• Distributors.
• Processors.
• Restaurants.
• Grocery stores.
• Other businesses involved in the food supply chain.

People who suffer severe illness may be entitled to seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses.
• Hospitalization.
• Lost income.
• Pain and suffering.
• Long-term health complications.
• Other damages related to the illness.

Foodborne illness claims often depend on laboratory testing, epidemiological investigations, medical records, and evidence linking a person’s illness to a contaminated food product.

Preserving Evidence Can Be Important

Individuals who believe they became sick from contaminated food should consider preserving evidence whenever possible.

Helpful evidence may include:

• Medical records and laboratory test results.
• Receipts showing where food was purchased.
• Remaining food products or packaging.
• Restaurant receipts.
• Health department reports.
• Documentation of missed work and medical expenses.

This information can assist investigators and may be important if a contaminated food source is later identified.

Investigation Continues

Public health officials continue investigating the outbreak and have not confirmed a specific food product responsible for Florida’s reported cases.

Additional guidance may be released as investigators gather more information and identify the source of the contamination.

Protecting Yourself and Your Family

Foodborne illnesses can affect anyone, but young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems may face a greater risk of complications. Following safe food-handling practices and seeking medical attention for persistent gastrointestinal symptoms can help reduce the risk of serious illness.