Maryland Reports Increase in Cyclosporiasis Cases
Maryland is currently looking into a surge in cyclosporiasis, a parasitic disease characterized by severe diarrhea.
As of 2026, the state’s Department of Health has confirmed 32 cases of cyclosporiasis, with 28 of these emerging since May 1. At least one case has been identified in Baltimore, according to MedStar Health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted that cyclosporiasis has affected hundreds of individuals across 18 states, and health officials are still investigating the source of these infections.
Maryland’s Department of Health indicated that no common link has been found for the cases reported between May 1 and July 7.
Health officials mentioned that cyclosporiasis tends to spike during the spring and summer months, particularly from May to the end of August.
In 2025, Maryland recorded 128 confirmed cases, with 18 occurring from May 1 to July 7. The year prior, 204 cases were confirmed, with 19 reported in the same timeframe.
Understanding Cyclosporiasis and Its Symptoms
Experts note that cyclosporiasis differs from regular food poisoning, and there are certain symptoms that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Symptoms can include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, a decreased appetite, and significant fatigue, often taking up to a week to manifest—this delay complicates efforts to track the origin of the parasite.
The parasite also evolves as it multiplies, making it even trickier to attribute cases to one source.
Sources of the Cyclospora Parasite
While doctors advise thoroughly washing fresh fruits and vegetables to lessen your risk, they emphasize the importance of consulting a healthcare provider if you experience persistent watery diarrhea, as parasites can be managed with antibiotics.
Dr. Jonathan Thierman, president of Expresscare Urgent Care Centers, explained, “It’s a fecal-oral transmission, meaning it originates in feces that can contaminate food, subsequently entering someone else’s system. The primary culprits are usually fresh produce; lettuce and berries, especially raspberries, are significant concerns due to their difficult-to-wash crevices. These parasites have sticky eggs that cling to the surfaces of produce.”
