Alabama Cyclospora Cases Hit 85, Just Two in West Alabama

Cyclosporiasis isn't getting the headlines it did a few weeks ago, but it is still a medical issue. The number of confirmed cases in Alabama has grown to 85, with 61 of the confirmed cases in the Alabama Department of Public Health's Northern Alabama  District. Two hospitalizations have occurred in Alabama.

West Alabama still has only two documented cases since ADPH announced the confirmation of the first two cases in the state on July 15th. Between July 16 and 17, eleven more cases were confirmed in the state. They have grown weekly.

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Nationally, the best current estimate is that there are at least 6,707 confirmed cases. However, CDC cautions there are potentially 18,000+ total unconfirmed or under-investigated cases that are part of the national outbreak. Two deaths have been confirmed in Michigan.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic single-celled parasite [Cyclospora cayetanensis]. It leads to watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fatigue and spreads through contaminated food or water and is diagnosed via stool tests.

Outbreaks have repeatedly been linked to fresh produce, including: cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, bagged salads, and Iceberg lettuce (including the current multistate outbreak).

ADPH recommends the following to reduce risk:

• Wash hands and fresh produce thoroughly.
• Cook produce to at least 158°F (70°C) to kill the parasite.
• Store produce and fruits in the refrigerator.
• Stay updated on food recalls and outbreak alerts.
• Expect contact from health officials if diagnosed, as they may ask about foods eaten in the prior two weeks.

Cyclosporiasis in Alabama Breakdown (Per ADPH):

• 85 confirmed cases statewide
• Northern Alabama is the hotspot with 61 cases
• Jefferson County: 4 cases
• Mobile County: 4 cases
• Two hospitalizations, no deaths
• 22 cases linked to two Mexican‑style restaurant outbreaks (not Taco Bell)
• 4 cases linked to the Taco Bell multistate iceberg lettuce outbreak
• 8 cases tied to international travel
• 4 cases linked to a Mexican‑style restaurant chain in Florida
• Cyclospora spreads through contaminated fresh produce, not person‑to‑person
• Symptoms include prolonged watery diarrhea, fatigue, cramping, and loss of appetite
• ADPH urges clinicians to request specific Cyclospora testing, which is not included in routine stool exams

**Statistics from the latest figures provided by ADPH & CDC.