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Why does my “stomach bug” keep coming back after I start feeling better?
Can you actually wash the Cyclospora parasite off of bagged salad mixes?
A massive Cyclospora surge is hitting 31 states. Learn why official counts lag by six weeks and why standard washing won’t kill this “sticky” parasite.
Key Takeaways
What: A 31-state Cyclospora outbreak linked to lettuce and fresh produce.
Why: Official counts lag by six weeks, and the parasite resists standard chemical washing.
How: Reduce risk by discarding outer lettuce layers, cooking produce to 158°F, and requesting a specific parasite test from your doctor.
The 2026 Cyclosporiasis Data Discrepancy: Why Official Numbers Undercount the Surge
If you look at the federal tracker for the current Cyclospora outbreak, you might see a number like 843 confirmed cases across 31 states. However, if you look at the state level, the picture changes completely. Michigan alone has reported more than 2,640 cases. This massive gap between federal and state data is not a typo; it is the result of a six-week reporting lag.
