Federal Officials Investigate Cyclospora Outbreak in Bay Area
Federal health officials are investigating an outbreak of cyclospora, a diarrhea-causing parasite, that has sickened 72 people in the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose area as of Wednesday.
San Francisco Oakland San Jose, CA, July 23, 2026 —
Federal health officials have launched an investigation into an outbreak of cyclospora, a parasitic illness known to cause gastrointestinal distress, that has affected 72 individuals across the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose metropolitan area. The latest figures were reported as of Wednesday.
Cyclospora is an intestinal parasite that causes an infection when a person ingests contaminated food or water. The parasite infects the small intestine and can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramping, bloating, and fatigue. Nausea, vomiting, and body aches have also been reported. Symptoms typically appear about a week after exposure but can range from a few days to over a month.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other federal health agencies are working to identify the source of the outbreak. The investigation is ongoing, and further details regarding the specific food or water sources linked to the infections have not yet been released.
Public health officials are advising residents in the affected areas to practice good hygiene, including thorough handwashing, especially after using the restroom and before preparing or eating food. They also recommend washing fruits and vegetables carefully, as these are common vehicles for the parasite.
The number of reported cases may increase as the investigation continues and more individuals report symptoms or seek medical attention. Health authorities are urging anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with a cyclospora infection to consult a healthcare provider.
Story summarized from the original created by Stephanie.Weaver@fox.com (Stephanie Weaver) on www.ktvu.com, see more information here.
