Cyclospora outbreak hits Florida with 60-plus cases as investigations continue

Health officials say about 60 Florida cases of cyclosporiasis linked to cyclospora have been reported this summer, with Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Orange, and Lee counties affected; nationwide cases exceed 1,000. The parasite is contracted through contaminated food or water, with a 2–14 day incubation and symptoms like explosive diarrhea, cramps, nausea, fatigue, and fever. No single source has been identified yet; diagnosis relies on stool testing and antibiotics such as Bactrim DS. Producers should wash produce and, when possible, cook it. The very young, elderly, pregnant, and immunocompromised are at higher risk, and persistent diarrhea warrants medical care.