WNC Health Alert: Understanding Cyclosporiasis and Produce Safety

Health News -- July 15, 2026: Western North Carolina residents are urged to understand the unique challenges of preventing cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has issued guidelines for proper produce safety, which are particularly vital due to the nature of this foodborne illness.Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.