Summer is the season for fresh fruits, salads, and outdoor fun — but it's also peak season for a tiny parasite called Cyclospora that can make your child sick.
What Is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestines and causes an illness called cyclosporiasis. It spreads when someone swallows food or water that has been contaminated with the parasite. In the United States, outbreaks are most common from May through August and have been linked to fresh produce like berries, leafy greens, cilantro, and pre-packaged salads.
Good News: It Doesn't Spread Kid to Kid
Unlike many stomach bugs, Cyclospora cannot spread directly from one person to another — not through diaper changes, shared cups, or playing together. The parasite needs time in the environment (days to weeks) before it can infect someone, so direct contact is not a concern.
What Symptoms Should I Watch For?
Symptoms usually start about a week after eating contaminated food and can include:
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Watery diarrhea (sometimes frequent and foul-smelling)
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Stomach cramps and bloating
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Nausea and loss of appetite
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Tiredness
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Low-grade fever
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Weight loss or poor weight gain
In some children, symptoms can come and go over several weeks if not treated. Infants and very young children are at the greatest risk for dehydration from prolonged diarrhea.
When Should I Call the Doctor?
Contact your child's pediatrician if your child has:
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Diarrhea lasting more than a few days
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Signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers, no tears when crying, dry mouth, or unusual sleepiness)
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Bloody stool
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High fever
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Significant decrease in appetite or activity
Be sure to mention if your child recently ate fresh berries, salads, or herbs — this can help the doctor consider Cyclospora as a possible cause. Testing for Cyclospora requires a specific stool test that is not part of routine stool checks, so it's important to let the doctor know about your concerns.
How Is It Treated?
Cyclosporiasis is treated with a prescription antibiotic. Most children feel better within a few days of starting treatment. Keeping your child well-hydrated with fluids is also very important during recovery.
How Can I Help Prevent It?
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Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before serving them.
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Keep produce refrigerated.
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Practice good handwashing before meals and after using the bathroom.
It's worth noting that washing reduces risk but may not completely eliminate the parasite, since Cyclospora is resistant to many common disinfectants. Still, thorough washing is always a smart habit.
Learn More
For more information about keeping your child healthy, visit Cyclosporiasis in Children at healthychildren.org,the official parent resource from the American Academy of Pediatrics.