MADERA, Calif. – The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is urging parents to be aware of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal infection that can cause prolonged diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms in children.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. According to the AAP, people become infected after consuming food or water contaminated with fecal matter containing the parasite. Outbreaks have frequently been linked to fresh produce, including herbs, berries, lettuce and other vegetables.
The most common symptom is watery diarrhea, which can be severe and may come and go over time. Other symptoms can include loss of appetite, nausea, stomach cramps, bloating, excess gas, vomiting, fatigue, low-grade fever and weight loss.
Unlike many common stomach bugs that resolve within a few days, cyclosporiasis often causes symptoms that linger for weeks or even months without treatment. Children may appear to recover only to see symptoms return later.
Health officials are currently investigating several outbreaks across the United States. As of July 13, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had received reports of 1,645 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis and was reviewing more than 5,100 additional cases.
Cases have been reported in 34 states, with several states seeing an increase compared with the same period in 2025. California, however, is not among the states reporting elevated activity.
According to the California Department of Public Health, there are currently no known cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the state. The department notes that most U.S. foodborne outbreaks have been linked to imported fresh produce, including raspberries, cilantro, basil, snow peas and mixed salad greens.
While health officials recommend washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, both the AAP and public health agencies caution that rinsing produce may not completely remove Cyclospora. Cooking food when possible can help reduce the risk of infection. The AAP also recommends using safe drinking water, particularly while traveling.
When to Call a Pediatrician
Parents should contact their child’s pediatrician if they experience any of the following symptoms, according to the AAP:
- Diarrhea lasting more than a few days
- Severe or persistent watery diarrhea
- Signs of dehydration
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in the stool
- Persistent vomiting
- Fever accompanied by diarrhea
- Symptoms that improve and then return
Most healthy children recover fully, but the infection can be more serious for children with weakened immune systems or other underlying health conditions.
For more information about cyclosporiasis, including symptoms, treatment and prevention strategies, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics’ HealthyChildren.org website.
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