Surge in Cyclospora Cases Raises Concerns Over Produce Safety

WHO:

WBAL-TV - Dr. Greg Schrank, an infectious diseases physician at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

WBAL-TV - Cynthia Yingling, a local farmer at the Catonsville Farmers Market.

WBAL-TV - Gregory Horner, a local farmer from Deep Run Farm.

WHAT:

WBAL-TV - The Maryland Department of Health has confirmed 69 cases of cyclosporiasis this year, which is more than double the 32 cases reported about a week ago.

Newsweek - Over 7,000 cases tied to a multistate outbreak of cyclospora are confirmed.

WBAL-TV - Symptoms of cyclosporiasis include diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fatigue.

WHERE:

WBAL-TV - Maryland, specifically at the Catonsville Farmers Market and the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Newsweek - Multistate outbreak affecting various regions.

WHEN:

WBAL-TV - The 69 confirmed cases include 65 that occurred since May 1 through July 14.

WHY:

WBAL-TV - The rise in cases suggests a source of contamination further up in the supply chain.

WBAL-TV - The biggest risk associated with cyclosporiasis is dehydration, especially during extreme heat.

HOW:

WBAL-TV - To protect against cyclosporiasis, it is recommended to avoid prepackaged salads, peel the outer layer of fruits and vegetables, and cook produce when possible.

WBAL-TV - Local farmers claim their produce poses a lower risk of contamination because they do not use wash water and have less handling of the produce.

(UPDATED July 16, 2026 10:36 UTC)

The Maryland Department of Health has confirmed a significant rise in cyclosporiasis cases, with 69 reported this year, more than double the 32 cases noted just a week ago. Local farmers at the Catonsville Farmers Market, including Gregory Horner from Deep Run Farm and Cynthia Yingling, emphasize that their produce is less likely to be contaminated due to minimal handling and no wash water usage. Symptoms of this infection can include diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue, and health experts recommend avoiding prepackaged salads and cooking produce to reduce the risk, especially during extreme heat.