The Illinois Department of Public Health announced Thursday that a total of 995 individuals have been diagnosed with cyclosporiasis, a diarrheal illness, and that 58 of those patients required hospitalization. The figures, released on August 4, represent the latest count for the ongoing outbreak across the state.
State health officials, including Dr. Emily Landon of University of Chicago Medicine, said the numbers reflect confirmed cases reported through the public health surveillance system. While cyclosporiasis is rarely fatal, it can produce intense gastrointestinal symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and fever. In some instances, the infection may lead to dehydration or other complications that warrant inpatient care, accounting for the 58 hospital admissions recorded.
Health authorities are urging residents to practice safe food handling and to stay alert for symptoms that persist beyond a few days. The department has not disclosed a specific source for the outbreak but noted that the parasite that causes cyclosporiasis is typically spread through contaminated food or water. Ongoing investigations aim to identify any common exposure points and to implement control measures. The Illinois Department of Public Health continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.