Missouri cases of diarrhea-causing illness are connected to travel, DHSS official says

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missourians have been mostly spared from the diarrhea-causing illness that is contracted by eating contaminated produce or water.

Currently, DHSS has reported 43 cases since this time last year, and data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control show Missouri with zero reported cases of cyclosporiasis since July 9. Cases reported in Missouri are believed to be connected to travel.

"I do want to note that, although we have cases in MO, none are expected (at this time) to be related to the outbreak causing national headlines. We have cases reported each year around this time, usually related to international travel," Lisa Cox, spokesperson for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, said over email.

The CDC reports 843 confirmed cases in the U.S. since May 1, with Michigan having the highest count, and 86 people were hospitalized.

"CDC is aware that states are likely to report higher case counts of cyclosporiasis than reflected in CDC data and is working closely with states to update numbers as additional cases are confirmed," the tracking map of the illness on the CDC's website reads.

The Columbia/Boone County Health Department told ABC 17 News there were four cases reported in 2026. Spokesperson Austin Krohn said those cases are travel-related and not connected to the national outbreak.

Boone County saw 10 cases in 2023, which had the most cases within the past five years, with 2024 following with eight cases. No cyclosporiasis cases were reported in the county last year.

Cases are likely underreported, especially if people are infected but don't receive medical treatment, according to the CDC.

The CDC said cyclosporiasis is typically seasonal, with cases increasing in spring and summer, typically because imported fruits and vegetables are contaminated. Previously, outbreaks have been linked to basil, cilantro, mesclun lettuce, raspberries and snow peas.