The New York State Department of Health reported 22 additional confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis between Sept. 8 and Sept. 14, bringing the state’s total past 1,000 infections for the year, according to weekly case tracking updates. State officials noted that New York typically logs between 500 and 700 cases annually, making the 2026 total roughly double the figures recorded in each of the previous two years.
New York Cyclosporiasis Case Totals and Weekly Updates
As of Sept. 16, the New York State Department of Health documented 1,064 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in the state from May 1 through Sept. 14, alongside 1,098 confirmed cases between Jan. 1 and Sept. 14, according to state tracking data. These figures mark an increase of 22 infections from the previous week’s count, which stood at 1,042 cases from May 1 through Sept. 8 and 1,076 cases from Jan. 1 through Sept. 8.
State health authorities have maintained a schedule of publishing weekly case updates every Wednesday through the end of September. Prior updates illustrate a steady climb throughout the late summer months. The Sept. 2 report listed 1,018 cases from May 1 onward, while the Aug. 26 update recorded 980 cases for the same timeframe. Earlier reports tracked 939 cases on Aug. 19, 898 cases on Aug. 12, and 833 cases on Aug. 5, reflecting an increase of 231 total cases since early August.
Did You Know? State officials have previously noted that New York typically records roughly 500 to 700 cyclosporiasis cases each year, meaning the 2026 total of more than 1,000 cases is approximately double the annual totals reported in both 2024 and 2025.
Nationwide Case Numbers and Federal Surveillance
Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 19,883 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis acquired within the United States as of Sept. 15, covering symptom onset dates from the official cyclosporiasis season of May 1 through Aug. 31, according to federal figures.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that its Sept. 15 update would mark the final weekly case tracking report for the 2026 season because the volume of recent infections “has significantly declined.” Moving forward, the federal agency stated it will transition to periodic surveillance updates rather than weekly releases.
Expert Insight: While federal and state tracking schedules wind down as seasonal infection rates drop, health agencies continue to emphasize baseline food safety practices because the parasite can persist on improperly handled fresh produce.
Produce Handling and Medical Guidance
To reduce the risk of infection, health officials recommend washing hands thoroughly before and after handling fruits and vegetables, as well as cleaning and sanitizing knives, cutting boards, and food preparation surfaces. Consumers should scrub firm produce such as cucumbers and melons using a clean produce brush, remove bruised or damaged portions, and rinse fresh produce thoroughly under running water prior to consumption, according to state guidance.
Additional safety measures include refrigerating cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables promptly and cooking food when possible, since heat can kill the parasite. Although cyclosporiasis is typically not life-threatening, severe diarrhea can induce dehydration, posing heightened risks for young children, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Health officials advise anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, or symptoms persisting for more than several days to consult a health care provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total number of confirmed cyclosporiasis cases in New York for 2026?
As of Sept. 16, the New York State Department of Health reported 1,064 confirmed cases from May 1 through Sept. 14, and 1,098 confirmed cases from Jan. 1 through Sept. 14.
How do current New York totals compare to previous years?
State officials report that New York typically logs between 500 and 700 cases annually, with similar totals in 2024 and 2025. The 2026 total has surpassed 1,000 cases, sitting at roughly double the volume seen in each of the prior two years.
Will federal agencies continue weekly tracking updates?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Sept. 15 weekly tracking report was the final weekly update of the 2026 season due to a significant decline in recent infections, though periodic surveillance updates will continue.
What steps do you usually take to ensure fresh produce is safely prepared in your kitchen?