HEALTHCARE
Ohio gut illness cases near 200, state health department warns
Samantha HendricksonColumbus Dispatch
July 8, 2026Updated July 9, 2026, 9:28 a.m. ET
- Ohio health officials are warning residents about a cyclosporiasis outbreak, with 177 cases reported as of early July.
- The gastrointestinal illness, caused by a parasite, has led to at least 28 hospitalizations in the state.
- Symptoms include explosive diarrhea, cramping, and loss of appetite, which can persist for weeks if untreated.
The state health department is warning Ohioans to take the the gut-bubbling illness with “explosive diarrhea” spreading through the state and nation seriously, as dozens have been hospitalized in the Buckeye State
The Ohio Department of Health reported in a July 8 press release that as of July 2, there were 177 cyclosporiasis cases in Ohio. Most of the cases occurred after June 20. At least 40 counties have reported cases, and 10 cases were reported in Franklin County
The illness isn’t unheard of, but 2026 is seeing higher numbers than previous years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Michigan has the highest number of cases, with more than 700 reported between June 22 and July 6
Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, director of the Ohio Department of Health, urged Ohioans to seek emergency medical care if they think they have the illness. At least 28 Ohioans have been hospitalized
How it spreads and how to protect yourself
The gastrointestinal disease is transmitted by a microscopic parasite. Its most notable symptom is “explosive” diarrhea, as well as cramping, bloating and loss of appetite. These symptoms may persist for weeks if not treated properly, according to the CDC. Symptoms can even lapse before returning if not treated
The illness typically spreads by eating food or drinking water contaminated by feces, usually produce
The state health department said it is working with local health departments as well as neighboring states and federal partners to investigate the outbreak. There currently is no evidence to suggest the multistate outbreak stems from a single
No “common department
Cyclosporiasis is treated with antibiotics, and rest and fluids are important to recovery, Vanderhoff said in the news release
To prevent the illness from infecting you, the state health department says people should wash their hands with soap and water before and after preparing raw fruits and vegetables. Produce should be washed thoroughly under running water, and “firm fruit” like melons should be scrubbed with a clean product brush. Cut, peeled or cooked fruits and veggies need to be eaten or refrigerated “promptly.”
Business and consumer issues reporter Samantha Hendrickson can be reached at shendrickson@dispatch.com
