Cameron County has reported two confirmed cyclospora cases so far in 2026 as health officials continue monitoring a broader increase in cyclosporiasis cases across the United States.
The local update, dated July 14, shows Cameron County has recorded two confirmed cases this year, compared with eight confirmed cases in 2025 and six confirmed cases in 2024.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can cause an intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis. Infection can occur when a person consumes food or water contaminated with feces. Symptoms may appear within two days to two weeks after exposure.
Common symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea and fatigue. Less common symptoms can include vomiting, body aches, headache, low-grade fever and other flu-like symptoms.
The Cameron County update notes that more cases are being reported nationwide in several states, though the exact source has not been identified. The graphic lists Texas in the 31-to-80 estimated case range as of July 13. In a July 15 update, the CDC said it was investigating a large multistate outbreak involving more than 400 reported cases across Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky, along with additional clusters across the country.
Residents can reduce risk by washing hands with soap and water before preparing food, before eating and after using the restroom. Fruits and vegetables should be rinsed thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
People who are experiencing symptoms should contact a health care provider. Routine stool tests may not always screen for Cyclospora, so patients may need to ask specifically about testing if symptoms are consistent with cyclosporiasis.
Sources
- Cameron County Public Health cyclospora update graphic, July 14, 2026
- CDC: Cyclosporiasis outbreak with unknown source
- CDC: About cyclosporiasis
- CDC: Symptoms of cyclosporiasis
