The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported Thursday that 55 cases of cyclosporiasis have been recorded in the state this year, and health officials are tracking a recent spike in infections acquired within Kansas.
What changed for residents
KDHE said 37 of the 55 cases were likely contracted domestically, while 17 were probably acquired during international travel. One case remains undetermined. Officials noted that domestically acquired cases have "risen sharply" in Kansas since late June, with 30 cases reported since June 24.
How this fits nationally
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has received reports of 1,645 confirmed domestic cases of cyclosporiasis this season and is investigating more than 5,100 additional reports. Among confirmed U.S. cases, the CDC has noted 141 hospitalizations and no deaths.
| Metric | Kansas | U.S. (CDC-reported) |
|---|---|---|
| Confirmed cases (year to date) | 55 | 1,645 |
| Domestically acquired (Kansas) | 37 | — |
| Hospitalizations (U.S.) | — | 141 |
Symptoms, transmission and treatment
Health officials warn that symptoms of cyclosporiasis typically appear two to 14 days after exposure. Common symptoms include frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight, abdominal cramps and bloating, nausea and low-grade fever. Vomiting is less common.
KDHE and the CDC say the illness is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis and is not known to spread from person to person. Symptoms can be reduced with appropriate antibiotic treatment, according to state and federal public-health guidance.
How to reduce your risk
State health officials reiterated CDC prevention recommendations for consumers handling fresh produce:
- Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
- Use a clean produce brush to scrub firm produce such as melons and cucumbers.
- Remove bruised or damaged portions of fruits and vegetables before preparing them.
- Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked produce promptly.
KDHE noted that outbreaks in recent years have often been linked to contaminated fresh produce during summer months. While multiple states have reported increases compared with the same period in 2025, officials said the Kansas cases have not been linked to outbreaks reported elsewhere.
Residents who experience persistent diarrhea or other symptoms consistent with cyclosporiasis should contact their health care provider. The state and CDC continue to monitor cases and investigate potential sources.
Cole Bergman is the Kansas correspondent for News Block.
