Buncombe County reports four cyclosporiasis cases tied to produce concerns

Four Buncombe County residents have cyclosporiasis, and county health officials are warning people to be careful with fresh produce as cases rise in North Carolina and across the country. Buncombe County Public Health, part of the Buncombe County Department of Health and Human Services, is urging residents to properly handle, clean and cook produce, especially fresh herbs that are often eaten raw.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. Possible exposures include contaminated produce such as cilantro or parsley. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported 307 cases and 13 hospitalizations from May 1 to July 14, 2026.

The CDC has issued a Health Alert Network notice on domestically acquired cyclosporiasis cases in multiple states. As of early July, officials had not identified a specific grower, supplier or produce type as the source, and North Carolina's increase was not tied to outbreaks in other states. No Buncombe County restaurant or store has been named in the warning.

Symptoms usually begin about a week after exposure and can include watery, sometimes explosive diarrhea, along with other stomach and intestinal upset. Anyone with those symptoms after eating fresh produce should contact a clinician, especially if the illness is severe or does not ease.

Wash produce carefully, pay special attention to herbs, and cook fresh produce when cooking makes sense. Raw cilantro, parsley and other leafy ingredients are commonly served uncooked.