Health District reports potentially domestically acquired case of cyclosporiasis

The Clark County resident reported travel to states where the current outbreak is under investigation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:July 20, 2026

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District is reporting a case of cyclosporiasis in a Clark County resident who acquired the disease while traveling outside of Nevada. The individual traveled to two states associated with the ongoing multistate outbreak during the likely exposure period before returning to Clark County. The investigation is ongoing to determine whether the case is linked to the outbreak. At this time, there is no evidence that the exposure occurred in Clark County or elsewhere in Nevada.

Five cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in Clark County this year, which is consistent with the sporadic number of cases typically reported locally each year There is no indication of increased local transmission.

“While this individual likely became infected while traveling outside Nevada, the Southern Nevada Health District is actively monitoring the national outbreak and remains prepared to respond should additional cases be identified,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Health District. “Foodborne illness outbreaks can occur anywhere in the food supply chain, which is why practicing safe food handling every day is important. We encourage residents to wash fresh produce thoroughly, follow safe food preparation practices, and contact a health care provider if they develop persistent, watery diarrhea after travel or consuming fresh produce.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,644 people in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia have been infected in the outbreak. Ninety-four people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.

The investigation is ongoing, and the source of the outbreak has not been definitively confirmed. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s traceback investigation identified a supplier of shredded iceberg lettuce used at Taco Bell locations where people who became ill reported eating before their symptoms began. Taylor Farms has voluntarily recalled certain iceberg lettuce products sourced from Mexico. Although the FDA initially reported a positive laboratory finding in one lettuce sample, the agency subsequently determined that result was a false positive, and there are currently no confirmed product samples for Cyclospora. Shredded iceberg lettuce from this source was not reported to have been distributed in Nevada.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People become infected by consuming contaminated food or water, most commonly fresh produce. The illness is not typically spread directly from person to person because the parasite requires time in the environment before it becomes infectious.

The most common symptom is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, fatigue and, less commonly, vomiting or a low-grade fever.

Some people recover without treatment, but symptoms can last several weeks or longer and may go away and then return. Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics, which can reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Dehydration is a primary concern, particularly for young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

People who have experienced watery diarrhea for more than a few days should contact a health care provider and ask whether testing for Cyclospora is appropriate. Anyone experiencing signs of severe dehydration, including dizziness, weakness or decreased urination, should seek medical care promptly.

Cooking produce thoroughly is the most effective way to reduce the risk of Cyclospora infection. When eating fresh produce, consumers should:

• Wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling produce.
• Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them.
• Scrub firm produce with a clean produce brush.
• Remove and discard damaged areas and the outer leaves of leafy vegetables.
• Peel produce when appropriate after washing it.
• Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked produce as soon as possible.

Washing produce can reduce the risk of illness but may not eliminate Cyclospora. People who are immunocompromised or especially concerned about infection may consider choosing thoroughly cooked produce while the outbreak remains under investigation. Consumers should also monitor public health advisories and avoid any foods specifically identified as part of the outbreak.

For more information about cyclosporiasis, visit CDC’s cyclosporiasis website

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.