Cyclosporiasis cases in Maryland have more than doubled in a single week, with the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) confirming 69 cases as of July 15, 2026. The surge, which includes 65 cases reported between May 1 and July 14, is characterized by Dr. Greg Schrank of the University of Maryland Medical Center as a startling increase compared to the few cases the state typically sees annually.
Why Cyclosporiasis Cases are Surging in Maryland
The current outbreak is marked by a rapid increase in infections over a very short window. According to the Maryland Department of Health, these figures include both domestically acquired cases and those linked to international travel. While local health departments are investigating, they haven’t yet identified a common link for the 2026 cases.
Dr. Greg Schrank, an infectious diseases physician at the University of Maryland Medical Center, suggests the contamination source likely exists “much further up in the supply chain.” This assessment is based on the sheer volume of cases and their broad distribution across the country, which points away from localized contamination and toward larger-scale distribution networks.
Did you know? Cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite found in contaminated food and water. Symptoms typically appear one to 14 days after exposure, though a one-week window is most common.
Identifying Symptoms and Dehydration Risks
The primary symptom of the parasite is watery diarrhea, which can be frequent or “explosive.” Other reported symptoms include nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, substantial weight loss, increased gas, bloating, and low-grade fever.
Dr. Schrank warns that dehydration is the most significant risk associated with these symptoms, especially during periods of extreme heat. While he notes the illness is generally not life-threatening, the gastrointestinal distress can be “very bothersome and uncomfortable.”
Medical Treatment and Diagnosis
If diarrhea lasts more than one or two days, Dr. Schrank advises visiting a doctor for testing. Once diagnosed, patients can be treated with an antibiotic. According to Schrank, this treatment shortens the duration of the illness and reduces the severity of symptoms, which is particularly critical for vulnerable populations to avoid prolonged syndromes and complications.
Comparing Commercial Produce vs. Local Farm Risks
Dr. Schrank agrees that produce from local farms may pose a lower risk for cyclosporiasis due to the nature of the supply chain.
| Source Type | Risk Factors | Handling Process |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial/Retail | Higher risk in prepackaged salads/spinach | Complex supply chain |
| Local Farmers Markets | Lower risk of systemic contamination | Direct from pick to consumer; less wash water |
At the Catonsville Farmers Market, vendors report a shift in customer behavior. Cynthia Yingling of Glenville Hollow Farms stated that customers are choosing her produce because her operation doesn’t use wash water, resulting in “less handling stuff.” Gregory Horner of Deep Run Farm echoed this, noting that picking and packaging directly for the consumer means “there’s a lot less fingers in the pot.”
Pro Tip: To reduce your risk, Dr. Schrank recommends avoiding bagged salads, spinach, and lettuce. He suggests peeling the outer layers of fruits and vegetables—since the parasite sticks to the exterior—or cooking produce when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dangerous part of a cyclosporiasis infection?
According to Dr. Greg Schrank, the biggest risk is dehydration, particularly when vomiting and diarrhea occur during extreme heat.
How is cyclosporiasis treated?
Medical professionals can prescribe an antibiotic after a confirmed diagnosis to shorten the duration and lessen the severity of symptoms.
Are local farmers markets safer during an outbreak?
Dr. Schrank and local farmers suggest they may be lower risk because they often involve less handling and fewer steps in the supply chain compared to commercial produce.
What should I avoid eating to prevent infection?
Health experts recommend avoiding prepackaged bags of salad, spinach, and lettuce.
Are you changing how you shop for produce this season? Share your experience in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest health alerts in Maryland.