07/08/2026
North Carolina friends — Cyclospora is making the rounds this summer, with cases reported in multiple states, including right here in NC.
**Cyclospora** is a parasite that can spread through contaminated food or water, especially fresh produce. It can cause prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, and sometimes a low-grade fever.
Symptoms often start about **1 week after exposure**, but they can show up sooner or later. The frustrating part? It can last for **days to weeks** if untreated, and symptoms may improve and then come back.
A few ways to lower your risk:
✅ Wash fruits and vegetables well
✅ Use safe drinking water
✅ Avoid swallowing pool, lake, or splash-pad water
✅ Seek care if diarrhea is persistent, severe, or you’re showing signs of dehydration
If your stomach bug is hanging around longer than expected, don’t just tough it out. Testing and treatment may be needed.
Stay safe, wash the produce, and maybe give that suspicious salad a second rinse. 🥗