As concerns grow over an increase in cyclospora cases across the United States, local health officials say there is currently no evidence of cases in Henry County.
The Geneseo Current contacted the Henry & Stark County Health Department to determine whether the recent increase in illnesses has had any local impact.
"We have yet to hear of any outbreaks in our area," said RaeAnn Tucker-Marshall of the Henry & Stark County Health Department. "If we do, we would put out an alert."
Tucker-Marshall said the best way to prevent infection is by following the same food safety practices already recommended for everyday meal preparation, including frequent handwashing and properly washing or cooking fresh produce. The Illinois Department of Public Health offers similar guidance in its public education materials and seasonal health advisory.
Illinois Cases Continue to Rise
Illinois is among 17 states reporting cases of cyclosporiasis this year, although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not released county-level case information.
According to the CDC, 145 people in 17 states contracted cyclosporiasis in the United States between May 1 and June 16, 2026. Another 45 travel-related cases have also been reported.
Twenty people have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported.
Health officials stress there is currently no evidence of a single nationwide outbreak linked to one food item or supplier. Instead, investigators are examining several smaller clusters while continuing to search for possible sources.
Because many people recover without seeking medical care—or are never specifically tested for Cyclospora—the actual number of illnesses is likely higher than reported.
What Is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People typically become infected after consuming contaminated food or water.
Previous outbreaks in the United States have often been linked to imported fresh produce such as raspberries, basil, cilantro, lettuce and snow peas, although investigators have not identified a common source in the current investigations. The parasite does not typically spread directly from person to person.
Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure but may appear anywhere from two days to more than two weeks later.
Common symptoms include:
Frequent watery diarrhea
Stomach cramps
Bloating and gas
Nausea
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Fatigue
Some people also experience vomiting, body aches or a low-grade fever.
Without treatment, symptoms can last several weeks and may disappear before returning. Most healthy people recover, although some require treatment with prescription antibiotics.
Older Adults Face Greater Risks
Older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk because prolonged diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other complications.
Potential complications include:
People experiencing prolonged diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, blood in the stool or signs of dehydration should seek medical attention.
Because Cyclospora is not routinely included in all stool testing, patients with ongoing diarrhea should ask their healthcare provider whether specific Cyclospora testing is appropriate. Illinois health officials have also reminded providers that multiple stool samples may sometimes be needed because a single negative test does not necessarily rule out infection.
Simple Prevention Steps
Although investigators have not identified the source of the current illnesses, health officials emphasize that routine food safety practices remain the best defense.
The Illinois Department of Public Health recommends:
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling fresh produce and after using the restroom.
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.
Scrub firm produce such as melons with a produce brush.
Remove bruised or damaged portions before eating.
Refrigerate cut fruits and vegetables within two hours.
Store produce separately from raw meat and seafood.
The Henry & Stark County Health Department says it will continue monitoring for any local cases and would notify the public if an outbreak were identified.
The Geneseo Current will continue following updates from the Henry & Stark County Health Department, Hammond-Henry Hospital, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the CDC.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); Illinois Department of Public Health; Henry & Stark County Health Department; AARP; Mayo Clinic; local reporting by The Geneseo Current.
