DPH PRESS RELEASE: Connecticut Department of Public Health Reports Rise in Cyclosporiasis Cases Statewide with Link to National Outbreak

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CT DPH urges residents to follow safe food-handling practices as Connecticut confirms 35 cases in 2026, nearly double the count from this time last year

HARTFORD, Conn. - The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that 35 cases of cyclosporiasis have been confirmed in Connecticut as of July 13, 2026, nearly double the 19 cases reported at the same point last year. While no specific food source has been identified in Connecticut, DPH is actively monitoring the situation, interviewing all reported cases, and urging residents to follow safe food-handling and produce-washing practices to reduce their risk.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite. People become infected by consuming food or water that contains the parasite. The most common symptom is frequent, watery diarrhea, though some individuals may experience no symptoms at all. Illness typically begins within one week of exposure but can range from two days to more than two weeks. Most healthy people will recover from cyclosporiasis without treatment although their illness may be prolonged. Cyclosporiasis is treatable with antibiotics, rest, and adequate hydration.