HEALTHCARE
Erie County reports seven cases of cyclosporiasis amid outbreak
David BruceErie Times-News
July 16, 2026, 3:28 p.m. ET
- The local cases are part of a larger nationwide outbreak that has affected thousands across 34 states.
- Cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite often found in contaminated produce, with lettuce and tomatoes as possible sources.
The Erie County Department of Health reported seven confirmed cases of the gastrointestinal illness cyclosporiasis, the county’s first cases since at least 2000
The cases come during a nationwide outbreak of 1,645 confirmed cases and 5,100 potential ones in 34 states
“None of the reported cases have required hospitalization, to our current knowledge,” said Erin Mrenak, director of the Erie County Department of Health. No other details about those affected were available
People develop cyclosporiasis by eating food, typically produce, contaminated with the parasite cyclospora. Though cases occur each year across the country, this current outbreak has infected significantly more people, the CDC reported
Most people who develop cyclosporiasis do not require hospitalization and recover without treatment, though dehydration is a common complication
“People with certain medical conditions may be more vulnerable to complications,” said Dr. Graham Snyder, UPMC’s medical director of infection prevention and hospital epidemiology. “If you have underlying medical issues, talk with your doctor early in the course of this illness.”
Diarrhea is the illness’ main symptom
The illness’ main symptom is a watery, explosive diarrhea that can last anywhere from a week to a month, longer than with most gastrointestinal illnesses, Snyder said
Other symptoms include cramping and bloating, fatigue, loss of appetite, and a low-grade fever. Treatment is a seven- to 10-day course of the antibiotic Bactrim, also known as Septra
“A singleed,” county health officials said in a news release announcing the cases. “Early reports indicate that lettuce and/or diced tomatoes may be contributing to some of the cases, but due to the volume of cases, investigations are ongoing.”
The county health department is providing education and rewashing and cleaning produce is strongly encouraged, though this parasite can be difficult to remove from foods
Cooking foods kills the parasite
‘Buy local produce’ recommendation still applies
Health officials had been recommending that people buy local produce, since no Erie-area cases had been found. Mrenak said that recommendation still applies, since none of the cases have been connected to local farms
“If someone believes they have been infected with the cyclospora parasite, they should contact their primary-care provider for guidance on testing and symptom management,” county officials said
Contact David Bruce at dbruce@timesnews.com or by calling 814-870-1736
