Despite the nationwide outbreak of explosive diarrhea, this state is actually seeing fewer cases

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California health officials have confirmed that Southern California is not currently experiencing an increase in cyclosporiasis cases, nor are there any known local outbreaks of the intestinal illness within the state.

This comes as cases of the parasite-borne disease, which causes explosive-like diarrhea, surge in other parts of the nation, particularly in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Despite national trends, California’s current cyclosporiasis figures remain within expected ranges. From January to June 2026, the state has reported 41 provisional cases, a decrease from the 80 recorded during the same period in 2025. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) notes that annual averages from 2015-2025 stand at 106 cases, indicating that current counts for 2026 are consistent with historical data.

This comes as cases of the parasite-borne disease surge in other parts of the nation, particularly in Pennsylvania and New Jersey (Reuters)

“It’s important to understand that California experiences cases of cyclosporiasis every year, with a majority of cases acquired internationally,” stated CDPH Director Dr. Erica Pan. “Cases for 2026 are well within expected ranges for California, and we are not currently one of the states experiencing increased cases or an outbreak. We are aware of the outbreaks affecting other states, however, and are closely monitoring for any signs of local acquired infection.”

Dr. Pan urged residents to remain vigilant, adding, “We encourage Californians to protect themselves and their families by practicing safe food handling and thoroughly washing produce.”

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite, typically transmitted through food or water contaminated with human feces.

Federal and state health officials have reportedly begun investigating whether lettuce served at some Taco Bell restaurants has led to the widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis (Getty)

The parasite requires at least one to two weeks in the environment outside the body to become infectious after being passed in a bowel movement, making person-to-person transmission unlikely. Most cases in California are linked to recent international travel, though the CDPH actively monitors for domestically acquired cases and potential outbreaks.

Given the significant increases in cases observed in certain Eastern and Midwestern states, the CDPH is closely tracking cases associated with travel to these affected areas. Health officials anticipate that Californians returning from impacted regions during the summer months may develop the illness.

While California’s case numbers remain stable, the CDPH advises everyone to follow these crucial prevention steps:

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables.
Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking. Scrub firm produce like melons and cucumbers with a clean produce brush.
Remove and discard outer leaves from lettuce and leafy greens.
For vulnerable populations—older adults, young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals—cook vegetables and herbs whenever practical.
Prevent cross-contamination by using clean cutting boards, utensils, and food-contact surfaces. Keep ready-to-eat foods separate from raw produce during preparation.
Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours.
Avoid food or water that may be contaminated by human feces, especially when traveling to countries where tap water or food may be unsafe.

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