The intestinal illness spreading in parts of the U.S. has been raising food safety concerns, but health authorities in Alexandria say there’s little cause for alarm locally.
Cyclosporiasis is an infection caused by a parasite believed to be linked to some types of imported fresh produce. The illness is most often associated with watery diarrhea, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It can last a few days to upward of a month, but some people do not show symptoms.
The CDC is monitoring outbreaks in several Midwestern states but has not yet confirmed a specific food as the source. More than 30 states have reported infections this year, and current data from them shows the number of infections surpassing the record U.S. mark of about 4,700 set in 2019. The illness is not usually life threatening and is typically treated with antibiotics.
There have been 37 cases of cyclosporiasis reported in Virginia this year as of July 15, including 12 in Northern Virginia. Cases have been reported in past years too — 115 statewide in 2025.
“There’s always some risk for foodborne illnesses like cyclosporiasis, especially during spring and summer months,” an Alexandria Health Department spokesperson told ALXnow. “However, there is not current evidence that Virginia is experiencing an outbreak, including here in Alexandria, according to the Virginia Department of Health.”
In Michigan — where more than 3,300 cases have been reported — officials say early information points to lettuce or salad greens as a possible culprit.
The heat-loving parasite infects the bowels and spreads through feces. In the past, people have been infected by consuming fruits or vegetables that were exposed to feces-contaminated irrigation water.
The Alexandria Health Department shared the following tips to prevent the spread of cyclosporiasis:
- Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
- Wash hands carefully with soap and water before and after food preparation, and after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
- Travelers, especially to tropical areas, should avoid eating raw or undercooked foods or drinking untreated water.
- Anyone experiencing symptoms (like diarrhea, stomach illnesses, fever, fatigue, or muscle aches) should visit a doctor, rest, and drink plenty of fluids.
- More information about cyclospora and the illness it can cause is posted on the VDH website: Cyclosporiasis – Surveillance and Investigation
