Local cases small in number but part of wide national outbreak
The Metro Nashville Public Health Department confirmed that Davidson County has recorded fewer than 10 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, the intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite. The announcement places Nashville among the 34 states reporting infections as federal authorities continue to investigate.
What health agencies report so far
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there have been 1,645 reported cases nationwide in 2026, with 141 people hospitalized and no deaths reported. State and local investigators, including those in Tennessee, are working to determine whether a common food or water source links cases across jurisdictions.
Timing and transmission complicate traceback
Health officials emphasize that the parasite’s incubation period — typically about a week to two weeks after exposure — makes it difficult to identify specific meals or products connected to illness. That delay complicates investigators’ efforts to trace infections back to a single source.
"What makes it so difficult is that after you ingest this parasite, it can take a week, a week and a half, or two weeks before you come ill," said Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious disease at Vanderbilt.
Public health experts note that Cyclospora is generally acquired from contaminated water or produce rather than spreading from person to person, which reduces the risk of household transmission once a case is identified.
Advice for Nashville residents
- Wash produce carefully before eating.
- Peel or cook fruits and vegetables when possible.
- Seek medical care if you develop persistent diarrhea, vomiting, severe stomach cramps or fever.
Although cyclosporiasis is treatable with specific antibiotics, health officials say prevention is an important first line of defense. As one memorable guideline put it: "wash it, peel it, or cook it."
| Measure | Reported figure |
|---|---|
| Davidson County confirmed cases | < 10 |
| States with cases | 34 |
| U.S. cases in 2026 | 1,645 |
| Hospitalizations | 141 |
Local clinics and the Metro Health Department are monitoring the situation. Investigators will share updates as the CDC and state partners narrow potential sources — Michigan officials have signaled a possible connection to contaminated lettuce in their probe — but no definitive source has been announced nationally or locally. For now, Nashville residents are advised to follow routine food-safety steps and to contact a healthcare provider if symptoms develop.
