NEWS RELEASE: Important Health Update Regarding Cyclosporiasis in Ross County

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CHILLICOTHE, OH
July 8, 2026


The Ross County Health District (RCHD) is investigating 16 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis among Ross County residents. These cases were diagnosed between June 17, and July 8, 2026. The increase in local cases is part of a larger, nationwide increase in cyclosporiasis that is being investigated by state and federal public health officials. In Ohio, as of July 2, the Ohio Department of Health has reported 177 cases of cyclosporiasis statewide, with 171 cases occurring during June, most with illness onset since June 20. Public health officials are working to identify potential common sources of exposure.


What is cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. People get sick after coming into contact with the parasite through contaminated food or water.


How does it spread?
Cyclospora does not usually spread from person to person in normal everyday contact. RCHD is observing cases of secondary infection that can be spread through direct contact.


What is RCHD doing?
Our public health team is working to identify possible sources of exposure. We are reviewing case information, looking for common food or water exposures, and coordinating with partners to reduce risk in the community.


Understanding Cyclosporiasis: Symptoms normally appear 2–14 days after exposure and can last from a few days to over a month. Illness may improve and then return. Residents should watch for:

  • Frequent, watery, and sometimes explosive diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Low-grade fever
  • Nausea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Fatigue

If you are experiencing these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider.


Clinical Note: Healthcare providers can confirm cyclosporiasis by testing stool samples (or other intestinal samples). If treatment is recommended, the common course is a 7-to-10-day regimen of the oral antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX). Treatment decisions should be made by your doctor.


Follow these steps to reduce your risk:


Avoid Contamination: Avoid food or water that may be contaminated.


Wash Hands: Use soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables.

Prepare Produce:
– Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.
– Scrub firm fruits and vegetables with a clean produce brush.
– Cut away any damaged or bruised areas before preparing or eating.


Store Properly: Refrigerate any cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours.


Contact Information
For more information, please contact the Ross County Health District, PHN Division.
Morgan Kelley, Director of Nursing