Manatee County Reports First Confirmed Cyclosporiasis Case of 2026
The Florida Department of Health has reported one confirmed or probable case of cyclosporiasis in Manatee County, according to the latest FLHealthCHARTS surveillance report covering Jan. 1 through July 11.
The report lists a single case in Manatee County under the selected reporting criteria. Sarasota County does not have any cases listed in the visible results.
The update represents a change from earlier state reporting. A previous Florida Department of Health report documented 50 confirmed or probable cyclosporiasis cases statewide but did not include Manatee, Sarasota or Charlotte counties among those reporting cases.
State health officials have not identified the source of the Manatee County case or any common exposure. The report also does not indicate where the individual may have contracted the illness or where the diagnosis occurred. According to the Florida Department of Health, cases are assigned to a county based on the patient’s county of residence when the disease is identified. Officials note that the figures are preliminary and may change as investigations continue and reports are validated.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which is commonly spread through contaminated fresh produce. The parasite can contaminate fruits and vegetables through water used during growing or processing.
Dr. Ronald Andari, a gastroenterologist with Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, said the illness commonly causes diarrhea, loose stools, abdominal cramping, nausea and increased stool volume. Because it is a foodborne parasitic infection, it is most often associated with consuming raw fruits and vegetables.
Health experts recommend that anyone experiencing severe or prolonged diarrhea contact their primary care provider or gastroenterologist. Individuals showing signs of dehydration should seek emergency medical care.
The infection is treatable, typically with antibiotics after confirmation through stool testing. Physicians emphasize that early diagnosis can help prevent complications and speed recovery.
To reduce the risk of infection, health officials recommend thoroughly washing fresh fruits and vegetables, washing hands frequently with soap and water, and cleaning cutting boards and food preparation surfaces. Experts also note that hand sanitizer alone is not effective against the parasite.
Additional information about cyclosporiasis is available through the Florida Department of Health.