Hawaii Reports Cyclospora Cases Amid National Surge

Hawaii has reported cases of cyclosporiasis, aligning with a nationwide rise in infections triggered by a foodborne parasite. While federal officials assure that recalled produce linked to the largest outbreak is no longer available, new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates an increase in cases.

Increasing Cyclosporiasis Cases

According to the CDC, as of May 1, there have been 18,445 laboratory-confirmed domestically acquired cyclosporiasis cases. This marks an increase from the previous week by 1,265 cases. Confirmed cases have now been reported in 49 states and the District of Columbia.

Hawaii had previously been absent from CDC’s map, but officials confirmed multiple cyclosporiasis infections in the state. Newsweek reached out to Hawaii’s Department of Health for comments on the situation.

Cyclospora Counts and Health Officials’ Statements

Data from the CDC shows Michigan as the hardest-hit state, with between 4,000 and 6,999 confirmed cases. Hawaii has been added to the map with confirmed cases ranging from 1 to 49. Delaware officials stated that while cases have occurred, whole‑genome sequencing needed for confirmation is not routinely performed there. Specimens from recent cases in Delaware have been sent to the CDC for sequencing.

Food Supply and Outbreak Investigation

Federal regulators indicate that iceberg lettuce tied to the outbreak has left the food supply. More than 11,400 illnesses across 20 states have been attributed to the lettuce, resulting in 495 hospitalizations and two deaths. The CDC is investigating additional cyclospora clusters beyond the outbreak linked to lettuce from central Mexico.

Health officials note that a rise in reported cases doesn’t necessarily equate to new exposures occurring at the same rate due to significant reporting delays in cyclosporiasis surveillance.

Understanding Cyclospora

Cyclospora cayetanensis causes cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness often contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Most U.S. cases are reported during spring and summer. Symptom onset typically occurs about one week after exposure, with illness potentially lasting for weeks.

Product Recalls and Regional Impact

The major outbreak this year was linked to processed iceberg lettuce from central Mexico. A recall was announced on July 17, though Taylor Farms stated no positive cyclospora tests were associated with their products. Despite official de-emphasis on availability, Hawaii health officials clarified that the recalled lettuce was not distributed or sold in the state, urging further investigation into other outbreak sources.

Comparative Analysis of Cyclospora Seasons

This season’s outbreak far exceeds previous years. Since May, 18,445 confirmed cases have occurred alongside 990 hospitalizations and two deaths. In contrast, the May-August period in 2025 saw 1,180 national cases. Experts warn that true outbreak extent might be underestimated due to diagnostic gaps.

As the 2026 cyclospora season concludes, health agencies anticipate further case increases while processing backlogged reports.