Dozens of cases of illness caused by microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis reported in Illinois - ABC 7 Chicago

[ShazzieB]

Last edited Sat Jul 11, 2026, 01:12 AM - Edit history (1)

(Note: The original YouTube title said "contagious" parasite, but this is incorrect, as the illness cannot be spread from person to person.)

Illinois is experiencing a surge in cyclosporiasis, an intestinal infection caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Dozens of cases of contagious parasite. State health officials have reported roughly 150 to 160 cases, part of a wider Midwest outbreak. The illness spreads by consuming contaminated food (usually fresh produce) or water, but is not spread from person to person.