You may have seen recent headlines about a nationwide outbreak of Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that can cause gastrointestinal illness. While it is always important to stay informed, it is equally important to keep the risk in perspective.

Although the outbreak has received significant media attention, California has not experienced an increase in cases related to this outbreak. In fact, the California Department of Public Health reports that the state's 2026 case numbers remain within the expected range, with only 41 provisional cases reported through June, fewer than during the same period last year. Public health officials have also stated that there have been no cases in Los Angeles County linked to the current multistate outbreak.

Current investigations suggest that many illnesses have been associated with pre shredded or bagged iceberg lettuce distributed through large commercial food supply chains. As our food increasingly travels long distances through centralized processing and distribution, a single contamination event has the potential to affect people across multiple states. Cyclospora is particularly challenging because its microscopic spores can survive under environmental conditions that make them difficult to eliminate from fresh produce.

If you are concerned, consider purchasing fresh produce from trusted local growers whenever possible. The South Bay is fortunate to have excellent options, including the Manhattan Beach Certified Farmers Market, Hermosa Beach Farmers Market, and Torrance Certified Farmers Market, where you will often find locally grown, seasonal produce.

Most importantly, remember that this remains an uncommon illness, and the overwhelming majority of people will never be affected.

However, if you develop persistent watery diarrhea, especially four or more episodes per day, fever, significant abdominal cramping, nausea, or symptoms lasting more than a few days, please do not ignore them. Give our office a call. We can provide you with a stool specimen collection kit and arrange the appropriate testing so that, if needed, treatment can begin promptly.

Our goal is always to help you stay informed, not alarmed. Continue enjoying a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, wash produce thoroughly, and know that the overall risk remains very low, especially here in Southern California.

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