Investigations Underway for Cyclospora and Salmonella Outbreaks Across Multiple States
Ongoing investigations into outbreaks of cyclospora and salmonella, both causing severe diarrhea, are affecting numerous states, drawing parallels to significant past foodborne illness crises in the US.
Denver, CO, August 8, 2026 —
Federal and state health officials are currently investigating separate outbreaks of cyclospora and salmonella infections that have sickened individuals across numerous states. Both pathogens are known to cause severe diarrhea, with investigations drawing comparisons to major past foodborne illness crises in the United States.
The precise number of states affected and the total case counts for each outbreak were not immediately available. Health agencies are working to identify the sources of contamination for both the cyclospora and salmonella pathogens. Such investigations typically involve detailed interviews with affected individuals, traceback of food products, and laboratory testing to pinpoint contaminated ingredients or food items.
Cyclospora cayetanensis is an intestinal parasite that causes an illness called cyclosporiasis. People typically become ill after consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Symptoms often include diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. Some people infected may not exhibit any symptoms, while others experience prolonged illness.
Salmonella is a common bacterium that can cause diarrheal illness, fever, and abdominal cramps. Most infections are contracted by consuming contaminated food, particularly raw or undercooked poultry, meat, and eggs, or unpasteurized milk. The severity of salmonellosis can range from mild to life-threatening, especially for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Health authorities are urging the public to practice good hygiene, including thorough handwashing, especially after using the restroom or changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food. Consumers are also advised to cook poultry, ground beef, and eggs thoroughly and to avoid cross-contamination by washing cutting boards, dishes, and hands after contact with raw meat or poultry.
While the specific food items or sources linked to the current outbreaks have not yet been identified, investigations into foodborne illnesses are often complex and can take weeks or months to conclude. Public health agencies typically issue recommendations or recalls once a common source is confirmed.
Further updates are expected as the investigations progress and more information becomes available regarding the scope and origins of these outbreaks.
Story summarized from the original created by Jeremy Tanner on kdvr.com, see more information here.
