Texas health officials have confirmed nearly 200 cases of cyclosporiasis across the state this summer, marking a steady increase as public health agencies track the foodborne parasite during its peak season.
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the state logged 198 total cases—including 188 lab-confirmed and 10 probable infections—as of August 4. That represents an increase of 100 cases from late July, when state health officials had reported 98 confirmed infections.
Local health departments across North Texas are actively tracking infections within their communities. Dallas County Health and Human Services has recorded 33 closed confirmed cases and 11 ongoing investigations, while Denton County Public Health has reported 10 confirmed cases. Public health officials confirm that 15 people in Texas have been hospitalized due to the illness, with no deaths reported statewide.
State, local, and federal partners are working together to investigate a multi-state outbreak of the parasite Cyclospora. Investigations to identify sources of illness are ongoing. For the latest information, visit: https://t.co/dA79vo8m7q
— CDC (@CDCgov) July 15, 2026
CDC has also issued a Health Alert… pic.twitter.com/BdJwXtB5MC
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite *Cyclospora cayetanensis*. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with human feces, often linked to fresh produce such as leafy greens, berries, or herbs. Symptoms typically appear within a week of exposure and include severe, watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss.
State health authorities note that none of the infected Texas residents reported recent international travel, indicating the exposure occurred domestically. However, officials say a specific food source for the Texas cases has not yet been identified. While other parts of the country are battling localized multistate outbreaks linked to specific produce items, federal investigators have not tied the broader Texas cluster directly to those specific recalls.
Public health agencies advise residents to thoroughly wash all fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before preparation, though cooking produce remains the most effective way to eliminate the parasite. Anyone experiencing prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms is encouraged to contact a healthcare provider for specific diagnostic testing.
