MCHD confirms case of cyclosporiasis associated with international travel 07-16-26

July 16, 2026

MCHD confirms case of cyclosporiasis associated with international travel

MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Health Department has confirmed a case of cyclosporiasis in Mobile County that may be associated with recent international travel. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora and is typically transmitted through contaminated food or water.

“We have one local case now,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County. “Our investigation revealed the patient may have contracted the illness while traveling internationally.”

On Wednesday, the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) announced 11 other cases of cyclosporiasis had been reported. According to Ryan Easterling, director of the Health Media and Communications Division at ADPH, most cases are concentrated in the Northern District, where ADPH reported nine cases. One case was reported in the Northeastern District and one case in the Southwestern District, ADPH said.

“Cyclosporiasis can spread when food or water becomes contaminated with tiny amounts of stool containing the parasite and is eaten or consumed,” said Dr. Tommie Walker IV, epidemiologist and Director of Data Analytics and Epidemiology at the Mobile County Health Department.

“To reduce the risk of illness, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking them, and scrub firm produce with a clean produce brush. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing or eating food, after handling raw foods, and after using the restroom.”

No hospitalizations or deaths have been reported in Alabama so far. The CDC says it has received more than 1,600 reports nationally of cyclosporiasis since May 1.

Anyone experiencing frequent, watery diarrhea for more than 48 hours, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, or weight loss, should see a healthcare provider for testing and appropriate treatment.

For more information on food safety and prevention, visit https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/index.html/ or https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/foodsafety/mfp/food-safety.html.

Recommendations for clinicians can be found at https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/bcd/han-071626.html.