Cyclosporiasis cases continue to rise in New Hampshire

Across New England, health officials are documenting a rapid increase in cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that causes explosive diarrhea. In Massachusetts, the cumulative count rose to 147 confirmed cases as of July, the highest total recorded for the year and the closest to the 2019 peak of more than 200 cases. New Hampshire’s tally reached 69, while Connecticut reported 77 cases. Rhode Island health bulletins also note a rise, though specific numbers were not disclosed. The surge is receiving broad coverage from regional and national outlets.

State Affairs Pro, Yahoo, and the Worcester Telegram highlighted the Massachusetts spike, emphasizing the July surge. UnionLeader.com and WMUR focused on New Hampshire’s climb, describing the outbreak as part of a growing national trend. Patch.com and Connecticut Public reported the Rhode Island and Connecticut figures respectively. Fox61.com reported that Rein’s Deli in Vernon is implementing precautions, and a Facebook post echoed the statewide total of 147 cases. Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, typically transmitted through contaminated fresh produce.

Symptoms include profuse, watery diarrhea that can be severe enough to be described as ‘explosive.’ The disease often appears in late summer, aligning with the July spike noted in the reports. Future reporting will likely track weekly case counts in the affected states and any additional public‑health advisories. Media outlets have already noted business responses; Rein’s Deli’s precautionary measures suggest food‑service establishments may adopt similar protocols. Observers will watch for updates from state health departments on testing recommendations, potential product recalls, and guidance on produce handling as the outbreak evolves.