Most California cases are linked to international travel, but health officials are urging residents to know the symptoms and practice safe food handling as a national spike in infections unfolds.
California health officials are tracking dozens of cases of a foodborne parasite that can cause severe diarrhea, but they emphasize that there is currently no known local outbreak in the state.
The California Department of Public Health has recorded 41 provisional cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Most of those infections have been linked to recent international travel rather than contaminated food or water within California.
The cases come as federal health agencies investigate a broader national increase in infections affecting more than 31 states. Because California is one of the states monitoring cases, Los Angeles media outlets and public health officials are closely following developments even though no Los Angeles-specific outbreak has been identified.
For California families, the message is twofold: stay informed but do not panic.
Why California’s Situation Is Different
California’s numbers are actually moving in the opposite direction from some other states.
The state reported 41 provisional cases from January through June, down from 80 cases during the same period last year, according to the California Department of Public Health.
Health officials say most patients became infected while traveling outside the United States. Since May 1, California has identified only four domestic cases, and two of those individuals had recently traveled to the Midwest.
State officials have not linked California’s cases to any contaminated produce sold within the state or to any of the specific multistate outbreaks currently being investigated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
That distinction matters because past outbreaks have sometimes led to recalls of fresh produce. At this point, authorities have not identified a single grower, food brand, or product responsible for the recent national increase in cases.
What Is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal infection known as cyclosporiasis.
People usually become infected after eating fresh produce or drinking water contaminated with microscopic amounts of fecal matter containing the parasite.
Unlike many stomach viruses, Cyclospora does not spread directly from person to person. The parasite must spend days or weeks in the environment before it becomes infectious.
Symptoms Can Last for Weeks
The hallmark symptom of cyclosporiasis is severe, watery diarrhea that can become persistent and debilitating.
Other symptoms may include:
Common symptoms of Cyclospora infection
- Severe watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating and gas
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Low-grade fever
Symptoms typically begin about one week after exposure but can appear anywhere from two to 14 days later.
Without treatment, symptoms may continue for weeks and can even return after temporarily improving.
What To Do If You Have Symptoms
If you develop sudden, ongoing watery diarrhea or severe stomach discomfort, doctors recommend seeking medical care.
Important steps to take
Ask for specific testing. Standard stool tests for food poisoning often do not detect Cyclospora. Patients may need to request specific testing for the parasite.
Stay hydrated. Persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration, especially among children, older adults, and people with underlying medical conditions.
Do not rely solely on over-the-counter medications. Anti-diarrheal medicines do not eliminate the parasite and may not relieve symptoms.
Follow prescribed treatment. Cyclosporiasis can usually be treated with a specific 10-day course of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.
How to Protect Yourself
Public health officials say the risk in California remains low, but consumers should continue practicing good food safety habits.
Past outbreaks in the United States have been linked to imported fresh produce, including:
- Bagged salad mixes
- Pre-cut leafy greens
- Fresh cilantro
- Fresh basil
- Fresh raspberries
- Snow peas
- Green onions
Food safety tips
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.
- Use a clean produce brush on firm items like melons and cucumbers.
- Remove bruised or damaged areas.
- Refrigerate cut fruits and vegetables promptly.
- Cook produce when possible.
Experts caution that washing alone may not completely eliminate Cyclospora because the parasite can hide in tiny crevices on produce. Heating food to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit can destroy the parasite.
Why This Matters for California and Los Angeles
California imports large amounts of fresh produce from around the world and has millions of residents who travel internationally every year. That means state health officials remain vigilant even when local transmission appears limited.
For Los Angeles County, which has one of the nation’s largest Latino populations and one of the country’s busiest international travel hubs, awareness is especially important.
Many Latino families work in food service, agriculture, hospitality, and other industries where food handling and travel-related exposures may increase the importance of understanding food safety risks.
At this time, however, public health officials stress that Californians should view the situation as a reminder to practice safe food handling and recognize symptoms early rather than evidence of a widespread outbreak inside the state.
Federal investigators continue working to determine whether a particular food source is responsible for the recent national increase in cases.
California health officials are also continuing surveillance and may issue additional guidance if new information emerges.
For now, experts say the best protection is simple: wash produce carefully, know the symptoms, and seek medical attention if severe watery diarrhea persists.
Sources and Why They Matter
- California Department of Public Health Cyclospora Information Page – California’s official source for state case numbers and public health guidance.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Cyclospora Information Page – Federal authority on symptoms, treatment, and nationwide investigations.
FAQ
Is there a Cyclospora outbreak in California?
No. The California Department of Public Health says there is currently no local outbreak. Most reported cases are associated with international travel.
What are the symptoms of Cyclospora?
The most common symptom is severe, watery diarrhea. Other symptoms include stomach cramps, nausea, bloating, fatigue, and weight loss.
Can I catch Cyclospora from another person?
No. Cyclospora is not typically spread directly from person to person.
How is Cyclospora treated?
Doctors usually prescribe a specific 10-day course of antibiotics. People with symptoms should seek medical care and request specific testing.
Should I stop eating fresh produce?
No. Health officials have not identified any specific produce causing infections in California. Washing produce thoroughly and following food safety practices remain the best precautions.
