Think you have the 'poop parasite' in Philadelphia? What to do

A parasitic infection is spiking in multiple states this summer, often causing tummy troubles like 'explosive' diarrhea.

But how do you know if you have it, and then what do you do?

Cyclosporiasis, the infection caused by the parasite cyclospora cayetanensis, is commonly spread through food or water that may have had contact with fecal matter.

While the spring and summer months are typically cyclosporiasis season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recent spikes have been reported in states like New York and Michigan, and other cases are popping up across the country.

What to do if you have the 'poop parasite' in Philadelphia

While Philadelphia's Deputy Health Commissioner James Garrow said the city hasn't "exceeded [its] baseline for this time of year" for cyclosporiasis cases, you should still know what to look out for.

According to the CDC, the illness onset can come anywhere from two days to two weeks after infection, with noticeable symptoms like watery diarrhea, cramping, loss of appetite, bloating and more.

If you think you may have cyclosporiasis, you should see your doctor for a stool test, where your provider can test for the parasite.

If untreated, the CDC says, the illness can last for over a month with relapsing symptoms.

Because the parasite is not considered infectious until 1-2 weeks outside of the body after being passed in a bowel movement, transmission from person-to-person is unlikely, the CDC says.

How to prevent 'poop parasite,' cyclosporiasis

So, how do you protect yourself from getting sick?

While the CDC states that it is not fully known how cyclospora gets into food or water, safe food handling practices should be standard.

You should be washing your fresh produce before any eating, cutting or cooking, and any damaged or brown parts should be cut away.

Leftover fruits and vegetables should be refrigerated within two hours.

Kaitlyn McCormick is a Philadelphia-based reporter writing all things trending, breaking and city-related for USA TODAY's Philadelphia Metro Connect Team.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Think you have the 'poop parasite' in Philadelphia? What to do

Reporting by Kaitlyn McCormick, USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

This story was originally published July 7, 2026 at 11:44 AM.