MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Alabama health officials have confirmed the state’s first two cases of cyclosporiasis as federal and state agencies continue investigating a multistate outbreak of the intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) issued a consumer advisory Tuesday urging residents to practice safe food handling while noting that no Alabama cases had been reported at that time. Since then, the Alabama Department of Public Health has confirmed the state’s first two cases and expects additional cases to be identified over the next two weeks as delayed laboratory results are confirmed.
“Food safety is our top priority, and safeguarding Alabama’s food supply is a responsibility we take seriously,” Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate said. “One of the best ways consumers can protect themselves is by purchasing fresh, Alabama-grown produce from trusted local farmers.”
Patients in the current nationwide outbreak began reporting symptoms on or after June 22, 2026. Health officials say the illness most commonly causes intense watery diarrhea, severe stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, low-grade fever, extreme fatigue, painful bloating, excessive gas, persistent burping, loss of appetite and, in some cases, unexpected weight loss. Symptoms typically appear several days to two weeks after exposure.
Officials are urging anyone experiencing these symptoms to contact a healthcare provider and request a specific Cyclospora stool test, as routine stool examinations may not detect the parasite.
Unlike many types of viral food poisoning, cyclosporiasis often does not resolve quickly on its own and can last for weeks or even months if left untreated. However, health officials say it is highly treatable with the appropriate course of antibiotics.
Cyclospora infections are commonly linked to contaminated fresh produce, including leafy greens, herbs, berries and other fruits and vegetables. ADAI recommends consumers:
Thoroughly wash fresh fruits and vegetables under clean, running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
Wash hands, utensils, cutting boards and food preparation surfaces before and after handling fresh produce.
Keep fresh produce separate from raw meat, poultry and seafood to prevent cross-contamination.
Stay informed about food recalls and public health advisories.
ADAI officials said the department’s Produce Safety Program works directly with Alabama growers through education, on-farm assessments and implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule to reduce foodborne illness risks related to water quality, worker hygiene, equipment sanitation and produce handling.
The outbreak remains concentrated in the Midwest and Northeast, and no deaths have been reported. Federal investigators continue working to identify the contaminated food source while the Alabama Department of Public Health, ADAI, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention monitor the situation.
