Community Health Update
Clinical Review & Contributions
Grace Barnwell, FNP, COHN-S
Vice President of Operations, Mercy Urgent Care
Last Updated: July 23, 2026
At Mercy Urgent Care, our priority is to help keep Western North Carolina healthy. That means providing quality care when you’re sick, but it also means sharing timely, trustworthy health information so you can make informed decisions for yourself and your family.
Health officials are currently investigating a significant increase in Cyclospora infections across multiple states, including North Carolina, with confirmed cases reported here in Western North Carolina.
If you’ve recently developed persistent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, loss of appetite, or unusual fatigue, it’s important to know what to look for and when to seek medical care. This guide explains what Western North Carolina residents need to know about the 2026 Cyclospora outbreak, including symptoms, testing, treatment, ways to reduce your risk, and when to seek medical care.
If you think you may have cyclosporiasis, Mercy Urgent Care can evaluate your symptoms, provide testing and treatment, and help you recover. Find your nearest location.
Cyclosporiasis at a Glance
Mercy Urgent Care can evaluate symptoms, test for, and treat cyclosporiasis.
What is Cyclospora?
A microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal illness called cyclosporiasis.
Most common symptom
Persistent watery diarrhea
Symptoms usually begin
About one week after exposure (typically 2–14 days)
How it’s diagnosed
Specialized stool testing
Treatment
Prescription antibiotics, hydration, and supportive care
How Mercy Urgent Care can help
Our providers can evaluate your symptoms, provide testing and treatment, and administer IV fluids for dehydration, if needed.
What We Know About the Current Outbreak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Health Advisory after seeing a significant increase in Cyclospora infections across multiple states. Federal, state, and local public health officials are working together to identify the source of the outbreak and determine whether cases are connected.
In North Carolina, more than 300 cases have been reported since May 1, including confirmed infections in Buncombe and Henderson counties.
Cyclospora outbreaks have historically been linked to contaminated fresh produce, but investigators have not yet identified a single source responsible for this year’s illnesses. Additional public health guidance or food recalls may be issued as the investigation continues.
For residents of Asheville, Boone, Burnsville, Columbus, Waynesville, Weaverville, and surrounding communities, the most important takeaway is simple: know the symptoms, practice safe food handling, and don’t ignore persistent diarrhea that lasts longer than a typical stomach virus.
A Clinical Perspective
Grace Barnwell, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Certified Occupational Health Nurse–Specialist (COHN-S), and Vice President of Operations at Mercy Urgent Care, encourages Western North Carolina residents to stay informed and take active measures to reduce their risk:
“It is not spread directly from person to person; it spreads when a person swallows contaminated food or water. Cases in the United States typically peak during the summer months, from May through August. Wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly to reduce your risk. Buying local rather than imported produce can help reduce your risk as well.”
Grace Barnwell, FNP, COHN-S, VP of Operations
What Is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine and causes an illness called cyclosporiasis.
Unlike many common stomach viruses that improve within a day or two, Cyclospora often causes symptoms that linger or return even after briefly improving. Without treatment, people may continue feeling sick for several weeks.
Cyclospora is most commonly acquired by consuming food or water that has been contaminated by feces (poop). It is not typically spread directly from one person to another.
What Are the Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis?
Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure, although they may develop anywhere from 2 to 14 days later.
The hallmark symptom is persistent watery diarrhea.
Other symptoms commonly include:
- Frequent diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach cramping
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Increased gas
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Low-grade fever
- Vomiting
One of the characteristics that often distinguishes cyclosporiasis from other gastrointestinal illnesses is that symptoms may improve for several days before returning again. This cycle can continue for weeks if the infection is not treated.
Many people initially assume they have food poisoning or a stomach virus until the diarrhea persists much longer than expected.
Know When to Seek Care
If you’ve had watery diarrhea for more than two or three days, especially if symptoms improve and then return, don’t assume it’s a routine stomach virus. Cyclosporiasis is treatable, and early evaluation can help prevent dehydration and shorten your recovery.
How Does Cyclospora Spread?
People become infected after consuming food or water contaminated with Cyclospora.
Previous outbreaks have been associated with fresh produce, including:
- Leafy greens
- Salad mixes
- Cilantro
- Basil
- Raspberries
- Other fresh fruits and vegetables
Fresh produce remains an important part of a healthy diet. At this time, public health officials have not advised people to stop eating fresh fruits and vegetables.
Instead, the CDC recommends following safe food handling practices while investigators continue identifying the source of this outbreak.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk?
While no prevention method is perfect, there are practical steps everyone can take to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
The CDC recommends that you:
- Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling raw fruits and vegetables.
- Wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking them. Especially during ongoing investigations, be sure to wash produce even if it is labeled as “pre-washed,” if possible.
- Scrub firm produce with a clean produce brush.
- Pay attention to food recall announcements issued by public health officials.
It is also important to know that washing produce may reduce contamination, but washing alone may not completely remove Cyclospora.
Cooking, however, destroys the parasite. While many fruits and vegetables are intended to be eaten raw, thoroughly cooking high-risk produce (e.g. raspberries, basil, cilantro, bagged salad mixes) to an internal temperature of at least 158°F (70°C) can effectively eliminate Cyclospora.
Always pay attention to any active public health updates, and follow recall guidance and discard or return the product as instructed.
How Is Cyclosporiasis Diagnosed?
Cyclospora cannot always be detected through routine stool testing.
If your healthcare provider suspects cyclosporiasis, they may recommend specialized stool testing that specifically looks for the parasite. Many laboratories now use molecular testing, also called PCR testing, which can improve detection.
During your visit, your provider may also ask questions about:
- When your symptoms started
- Foods you’ve eaten recently
- Recent travel
- Whether anyone else in your household has become ill
This information helps guide your care, and it also assists public health officials in investigating outbreaks.
How Is Cyclosporiasis Treated?
Cyclosporiasis can usually be treated with prescription antibiotics.
The CDC currently recommends trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) as the first-line treatment for most patients.
Additionally, it is critical for your health and recovery to prevent dehydration. Persistent diarrhea can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte loss, particularly during the summer months.
Many people recover by drinking plenty of fluids and replacing electrolytes at home. Others may require intravenous (IV) fluids if dehydration becomes more severe.
Early treatment often shortens the illness and helps prevent symptoms from lingering for weeks.
When Should You See a Healthcare Provider?
Diarrhea caused by a stomach virus often begins improving within a few days.
If your symptoms continue or worsen, it is time to be evaluated.
Consider seeking medical care if you experience:
- Watery diarrhea lasting more than two or three days
- Diarrhea that improves and then returns
- Severe stomach pain
- Fever that persists
- Blood in your stool
- Difficulty drinking enough fluids
- Signs of dehydration, including dizziness, dry mouth, decreased urination, or extreme fatigue
- Significant weight loss
Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems should seek evaluation sooner because dehydration can become serious more quickly.
How Mercy Urgent Care Can Help
Persistent diarrhea may seem like something you simply have to wait out, but if your symptoms continue for several days, improve and then return, or you’re becoming dehydrated, it’s important to be evaluated.
Mercy Urgent Care providers treat gastrointestinal illnesses throughout the year and can determine whether cyclosporiasis or another condition may be causing your symptoms.
Depending on your evaluation, your visit may include:
- A comprehensive medical assessment
- Recommendations for specialized stool testing when appropriate
- Prescription antibiotics if indicated
- IV fluids to treat dehydration
- Guidance on recovering safely at home
If your condition requires a higher level of care, we’ll help ensure you receive the appropriate next steps.
As Western North Carolina’s only independent, nonprofit urgent care network, Mercy Urgent Care is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care close to home. With eight convenient locations serving Asheville, Boone, Burnsville, Columbus, Waynesville, Weaverville, and surrounding communities, we’re here when you need us.
If you’re experiencing persistent diarrhea, signs of dehydration, or other concerning gastrointestinal symptoms, find your nearest Mercy Urgent Care location or give us a call before your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyclosporiasis
Can Mercy Urgent Care test for Cyclospora?
Yes.
If your symptoms suggest cyclosporiasis, Mercy Urgent Care providers can evaluate your condition and order specialized stool testing. Because Cyclospora is not routinely detected on standard stool tests, your provider may recommend specific testing based on your symptoms, medical history, and recent food or travel exposures.
Early evaluation can help identify the cause of persistent diarrhea and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Can Mercy Urgent Care treat cyclosporiasis?
Yes.
If you’re diagnosed with cyclosporiasis or your provider believes treatment is appropriate, Mercy Urgent Care can prescribe antibiotics based on current clinical guidelines. We can also treat dehydration with IV fluids when needed and provide guidance to help you recover safely at home.
If your symptoms require a higher level of care, we’ll help ensure you receive the appropriate next steps.
How long does cyclosporiasis last?
Without treatment, symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Many people experience what’s known as a relapsing illness, meaning they begin feeling better before symptoms return.
Prescription antibiotics can often shorten the course of illness and help prevent symptoms from recurring.
Is cyclosporiasis contagious?
Not in the way many stomach viruses are.
Cyclosporiasis is not typically spread directly from person to person. Most people become infected after consuming contaminated food or water.
Can cyclosporiasis go away on its own?
Some people do recover without antibiotics, but symptoms can persist for weeks and may come and go during that time.
Because prolonged diarrhea increases the risk of dehydration, it’s a good idea to seek medical evaluation if symptoms aren’t improving after a few days.
Should I keep eating fresh fruits and vegetables?
Yes.
Fresh produce remains an important part of a healthy diet, and health officials are not recommending that people avoid fruits and vegetables. Instead, follow safe food handling practices by washing produce thoroughly under running water, paying attention to product recalls and public health updates, and cooking produce to at least 158°F (70°C) when appropriate.
When should I go to urgent care instead of the emergency room?
Urgent care is appropriate for most people experiencing persistent diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, or suspected dehydration.
However, you should seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience:
- Severe dehydration
- Confusion or difficulty staying awake
- Fainting
- Inability to keep any fluids down
- Severe abdominal pain
- Bloody diarrhea accompanied by significant weakness or high fever
It is important to stay vigilant and act promptly if you notice recurring or worsening symptoms.
Learn More & Stay Up To Date
For the latest outbreak updates and additional information, visit:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Cyclosporiasis
- North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services: Cyclosporiasis Updates
If you think you may have cyclosporiasis:
Mercy Urgent Care can evaluate your symptoms, provide testing and treatment, and help you recover.
