ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Buncombe County health officials are urging residents to take extra precautions when handling fresh fruits and vegetables after four confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported locally.
The intestinal illness, caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, has been increasing across North Carolina and the United States this summer. While the illness is usually not life-threatening, it can cause severe diarrhea and may require hospitalization in some cases.
North Carolina reported 307 cases of cyclosporiasis and 13 hospitalizations between May 1 and July 14, 2026, according to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Buncombe County has confirmed four cases.
Public health officials said no single food item has been identified as the source of infections in North Carolina, and current cases have not been linked to outbreaks in other states.
What is cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis occurs after someone consumes food or water contaminated with Cyclospora. Symptoms typically begin about a week after exposure and may include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Bloating
- Increased gas
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Some people may experience flu-like symptoms, while others may not have any symptoms at all. The illness can be treated with specific antibiotics.
The parasite is often associated with fresh herbs and produce that are eaten without cooking, including items such as cilantro, parsley and certain fruits.
Because Cyclospora contamination can occur where produce is grown, the parasite may survive the process from farm to table, even when produce is properly cleaned. Health officials say cooking produce can significantly reduce the risk of illness.
Investigations continue
Buncombe County Public Health officials said communicable disease nurses are working with local healthcare providers, environmental health specialists and neighboring counties to monitor cases and provide education.
Investigators are still working to identify possible sources of exposure. Officials said most North Carolina cases have not been tied to a common ingredient, and tracing the source of infections can be challenging.
Health officials emphasized that contamination typically occurs at the location where produce is grown and is not an indication that a local restaurant or food establishment is responsible.
“If you are experiencing severe or persistent diarrhea, you should reach out to your health care provider,” Buncombe County Public Health Director Dr. Ellis Matheson said in a statement. “Taking steps to protect yourself and others include washing your hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables as well as washing all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.”
How to reduce the risk
Buncombe County Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend residents:
- Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling produce.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
- Wash produce even if it is labeled “prewashed.”
- Cook produce when possible to reduce the risk of illness.
- Scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
- Cut away damaged or bruised areas before preparing produce.
- Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours.
The NCDHHS is maintaining a statewide dashboard with updated cyclosporiasis case counts.
For more information about cyclosporiasis, residents can visit the CDC website.
