Five Cyclosporiasis Cases Reported in Saline County in 2026

Saline County has recorded five reported cases of cyclosporiasis so far in 2026, according to the Saline County Health Department.

Salina311 contacted the department seeking information about whether the statewide outbreak has a specific connection to Saline County.

Meagan Rico, health educator for the Saline County Health Department, confirmed the local case count but said the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is leading the statewide investigation.

Because the investigation remains ongoing, the county referred questions about possible sources of exposure to KDHE. That includes whether any local cases have been connected to recalled Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce or to a common exposure involving a restaurant, grocery store or institution.

No specific source of the five Saline County cases has been publicly identified.

State Investigation Continues

KDHE is working with local health departments to interview people who have contracted the illness and identify possible common exposures.

The state agency maintains updated case counts and outbreak information on its Cyclosporiasis Surveillance Data webpage, which is updated weekly.

The investigation includes cases associated with a national outbreak and a voluntary recall involving certain Taylor Farms de Mexico iceberg lettuce products.

Taylor Fresh Foods announced the recall July 17 because of a possible health risk. Consumers are encouraged to review the recall information and dispose of or return any affected products.

What Is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite.

Symptoms can include:

Frequent watery diarrhea

Abdominal cramping

Nausea

Loss of appetite

Weight loss

Residents who develop symptoms, particularly within two weeks of eating fresh produce, are encouraged to contact a healthcare provider.

The illness can be treated with antibiotics when properly diagnosed.

Health Department Issues Safety Guidance

The Saline County Health Department recommends washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them.

However, the department cautioned that washing produce may not completely remove Cyclospora if the food is contaminated.

People at greater risk of severe illness or dehydration may want to consider cooking fresh produce before eating it. Higher-risk groups include older adults, young children, people with weakened immune systems, individuals receiving chemotherapy and organ transplant recipients.

Residents should continue monitoring updates from KDHE and federal health agencies as the investigation continues.