Mysterious parasite sickens people in NJ as outbreak grows

⚠️ The CDC says a Cyclospora outbreak has reached New Jersey and at least 16 other states.

🔴 At least 145 cases have been confirmed nationwide, with 20 people hospitalized.

➡️ Investigators have not identified the source and expect more cases during the summer.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is tracking a parasite that has hospitalized 20 people and reached New Jersey.

There are at least a few confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in New Jersey, according to the CDC. While 145 cases have been confirmed amid the nationwide outbreak, health officials note that plenty of cases will go under the radar because many people won't get tested at the hospital.

Federal authorities said it's come to 17 states, including New Jersey. The neighboring state of New York has been hardest hit with at least 30 confirmed cases.

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States where cyclosporiasis has been detected between May 1 and June 16, 2026. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

CDC has not identified the source of the outbreak

Where the outbreak came from remains a mystery. The CDC is investigating and says it may be multiple outbreaks occurring at the same time. Case counts will likely increase in the summer weeks ahead, as peak cyclosporiasis season runs from May 1 to Aug. 31 each year.

Cyclosporiasis is a form of food poisoning caused by a parasite called Cyclospora. However, none of the cases are connected to international travel.

It unfortunately brings many of the symptoms commonly associated with food poisoning, including watery and, sometimes, explosive diarrhea. Other common symptoms include nausea, fatigue, bloating, and increased gas.

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