Oklahoma cyclosporiasis cases rise to 172 with 12 hospitalizations, OSDH says - KOCO

What the report says

KOCO reported that Oklahoma’s cyclosporiasis count has risen to 172 cases, citing new figures released Tuesday by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. The report, updated July 21, 2026, said 170 infections were confirmed by laboratory testing, while two were classified as probable based on symptoms and contact with a product that could have allowed transmission of the parasite.

According to the OSDH data cited by KOCO, 12 people have been hospitalized and no deaths have been reported in the state. The median age of patients is 40. Women make up 55% of reported cases, while men account for 45%. KOCO noted that Oklahoma had 56 cases the previous week, meaning the reported total has more than tripled. The outlet also said initial figures released Tuesday were incomplete and first showed 116 cases before being updated to 172.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora. KOCO, citing health guidance, reported that infections can be linked to eating contaminated or unwashed produce and may cause watery diarrhea, fatigue, dehydration, nausea and vomiting. The illness is considered seasonal, with cases typically increasing in spring and summer; the cyclosporiasis season runs from May 1 through Aug. 31.

The article said federal investigations since 2013 have linked Cyclospora outbreaks most often to fresh herbs and leafy greens used in salads. Produce items previously associated with the parasite include parsley, cilantro, snow peas, mesclun lettuce, spinach, salad mixes and berries.