Key points
- Cyclosporiasis occurs in many countries but is most common in tropical and subtropical regions and appears to be seasonal.
- Cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the US have often been linked to various imported fresh produce and in people who have traveled to Cyclospora-endemic areas.
Geographic distribution
Cyclosporiasis occurs in many countries, but it is most common in tropical and subtropical regions. In areas where researchers have studied cyclosporiasis, the risk of infection is seasonal. However, researchers have not identified a consistent pattern regarding the time of year or the environmental conditions that might affect seasonality, such as temperature and rainfall.
United States
In the US, foodborne outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been linked to different types of imported fresh produce, including
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Mesclun lettuce
- Raspberries
- Snow peas
To date, no outbreaks have been linked to commercially frozen or canned produce.
International travel
US cases of infection can also occur when people travel to Cyclospora-endemic areas. To reduce the risk for infection, travelers should review the CDC Yellow Book to learn more about how to take precautions.
Travelers should also be aware that routine disinfection or sanitization methods for food or water are unlikely to kill Cyclospora.