North Carolina Health Department Reports Surge in Cyclosporiasis Cases, Hospitalizations Increase
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has reported a significant increase in Cyclosporiasis cases across the state. Since May 1, 2026, there have been 718 diagnosed cases and 24 hospitalizations. The department has launched a Cyclosporiasis Cases and Outbreaks Dashboard to monitor the situation, updating it weekly. The illness, caused by the Cyclospora parasite, is often linked to contaminated food or water. Recent interviews with patients suggest parsley and cilantro as common foods consumed by those affected, although not all patients reported eating these ingredients. The hardest-hit demographic is adults aged 55 and older, with 264 cases, while adults aged 19 to 54 account for 447 cases. Health officials recommend avoiding raw parsley and cilantro or cooking them thoroughly to prevent infection. 
