Cyclospora outbreak concerns grow as cases rise in Massachusetts

Cyclospora cases are on the rise in Massachusetts, according to data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

So far in 2026, 147 cases have been reported statewide — the highest annual total since 2019, when more than 200 cases were confirmed.

While Cyclospora outbreaks were relatively uncommon in the United States for several years, cases increased about a decade ago, with a significant spike in 2018 and 2019, when more than 4,000 cases were reported nationwide.

Cyclospora is a parasite that can contaminate fresh, uncooked produce through fecal matter.

On July 17, Taylor Farms recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico after it was identified as a potential source of the outbreak.

The recall includes iceberg lettuce sold at retail stores and served in restaurants, as well as other recalled products distributed to food service customers.

According to CDC data, as of Aug. 5, there have been 10,468 laboratory-confirmed domestic cases of cyclosporiasis, along with 12,255 additional cases that have not yet been laboratory confirmed.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health said case investigations have identified several small clusters among Massachusetts residents, with some appearing to be linked to the recalled lettuce.

The agency also said the proportion of Massachusetts cases acquired within the United States, rather than through international travel, has increased.

However, investigators believe some residents likely contracted the illness while traveling to states where outbreaks are occurring.

According to DPH, only about 20% of Massachusetts patients reported international travel.

Health officials said there is no evidence of large-scale outbreaks in Massachusetts, and no locally grown produce has been identified as the source of infection

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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