The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in Baxter and Marion counties as part of a national outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce. State data shows between one and nine cases in each of those counties, while neighboring Boone County has reported 19. Across Arkansas, there have been 237 cases as of Friday, August 7.
Cyclosporiasis, caused by the Cyclospora parasite, is contracted through food or water contaminated with the microscopic organism, often fresh produce. It does not spread easily from person to person. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, nausea, and fatigue, which can fluctuate in severity and last from several days to over a month. Diagnosis requires a stool test, and anyone experiencing prolonged diarrhea is advised to seek medical attention.
Federal investigators have identified lettuce grown in central Mexico and distributed by Taylor Farms as a source of the outbreak. Arkansas is among 15 states where cases have been traced to the produce. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported over 10,000 cases nationwide since May 1, with more than 500 hospitalizations. Michigan recently reported the outbreak’s first two deaths.
While most Arkansas cases are concentrated in the northwest region, Dr. Naveen Patil, an ADH medical director, has noted that testing and reporting practices likely influence the geographic pattern rather than the parasite being absent elsewhere. Health officials emphasize that washing produce, while helpful, cannot fully eliminate Cyclospora due to its resistance to routine chemical disinfectants. The parasite can be destroyed, however, through cooking at temperatures of 158 degrees or higher.
To reduce risk, ADH advises several precautions when handling or consuming fresh produce. These include washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food, rinsing produce thoroughly under running water, and using a clean brush on firm items like cucumbers and melons. For leafy vegetables, officials recommend buying whole heads instead of bagged or precut varieties, discarding the outer layers, and washing the remaining leaves. Cut or peeled produce should be refrigerated within two hours.
State health officials urge anyone diagnosed with cyclosporiasis to complete a survey sent by email from adharcnoreply@arkansas.gov to assist in identifying potential exposure sources. Additional information about the illness is available at the ADH website under communicable diseases at healthy.arkansas.gov.