What We Know: The Springfield-Greene County Health Department is warning residents to stay alert after a sharp increase in cases of cyclosporiasis this summer.
What It Means: Health officials say Greene County normally sees fewer than 10 cases in an entire year. So far in 2026, there have been 50 reported cases, with 43 of those confirmed during July alone.
Missouri is one of several states linked to an outbreak connected to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. The company voluntarily recalled affected products in July, and Springfield-Greene County health inspectors say they worked with local grocery stores and restaurants to remove the recalled lettuce from shelves.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite that spreads through contaminated food or water. Common symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Symptoms may not appear for up to two weeks after eating contaminated food and can last for more than a month if left untreated.
What’s Next: Health officials say anyone experiencing those symptoms should contact a healthcare provider and ask about testing, since routine stool tests do not always screen for the parasite. The illness can be treated with antibiotics.
The health department also reminds residents that simply washing fresh produce may not remove the parasite. Cooking food to at least 158 degrees is the most effective way to kill it.
Foods linked to past Cyclospora outbreaks include salad greens, cilantro, basil, raspberries, green onions, and snow peas.
Officials say the risk remains elevated in Missouri and other states, especially as people continue traveling before the end of summer.
(Photo provided by Springfield -Greene County Health Department)