--- title: FAQs on Cyclospora date: 2026-07-23T23:02:15-07:00 canonical_url: "https://marlerclark.com/news_events/faqs-on-cyclospora" section: News --- [All News](/news_events) / # FAQs on Cyclospora ***Cyclospora*** *Cyclospora* is a parasite, not a bacterium, and it behaves like one—causing a prolonged, relapsing illness that can drag on for weeks. It is usually traced to fresh imported produce, and because it is hardy, ordinary washing does not reliably remove it. [Marler Clark, The Food Safety Law Firm](https://marlerclark.com/), is the nation’s leading firm representing victims of [*Cyclospora*](https://about-cyclospora.com/) outbreaks. Our [*Cyclospora* attorneys](https://marlerclark.com/food-litigation/cyclospora-outbreak-litigation) have represented victims in the only U.S. law practice devoted exclusively to foodborne illness, which has recovered more than $850 million for victims and families nationwide. We have litigated [*Cyclospora*](https://about-cyclospora.com/) cases traced to basil, bagged salad, snap peas, and other fresh produce, including the large 2018 outbreaks linked to McDonald’s salads and Del Monte vegetable trays. If you or a family member became ill with a [*Cyclospora*](https://about-cyclospora.com/) infection after eating contaminated food, contact the Marler Clark [*Cyclospora*](https://about-cyclospora.com/) attorneys for a free case evaluation. **FAQ** **What is *Cyclospora*?** *Cyclospora* is a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, a prolonged, relapsing intestinal illness that can last for weeks. It usually spreads through fresh imported produce, and because it is hardy, ordinary washing does not reliably remove it. **What foods cause *Cyclospora* outbreaks?** Fresh produce is the usual source—basil, cilantro, bagged salad, snap peas, and pre-packaged vegetable trays have all been implicated, often when imported. **What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?** Watery diarrhea that comes and goes, fatigue, loss of appetite, cramping, and weight loss. Untreated, symptoms can persist or relapse for weeks. **How is it treated?** Cyclosporiasis usually requires a specific antibiotic—not the standard treatment for other diarrheal illnesses—so an accurate diagnosis matters. Ask your doctor about testing for parasites. **Can I sue for a *Cyclospora* infection?** If your illness is tied to a contaminated produce item or a recognized outbreak, you may have a product-liability claim against the grower, importer, or seller. **Additional Resources:** - [About *Cyclospora*](https://about-cyclospora.com/) — a complete online resource on *Cyclospora* infection ***Working with Marler Clark*** Marler Clark, The Food Safety Law Firm, represents victims of foodborne illness nationwide. Here are answers to the questions people ask us most often. **FAQ** **How much does it cost to hire a food poisoning lawyer?** Marler Clark handles food poisoning cases on a contingency-fee basis. There is no charge for the initial consultation, and no attorney’s fees unless we obtain a recovery for you through a settlement or verdict. When your case concludes, you receive a full written accounting of all fees and expenses for your approval before any money is disbursed. **Do I have a food poisoning case?** The strongest cases share three things: a laboratory-confirmed infection, usually from a stool sample; a documented link between your illness and a specific food, restaurant, or product, often through a public health investigation or a genetic match to an outbreak strain; and real damages such as hospitalization, lasting injury, or lost income. A free case evaluation is the fastest way to learn where you stand. **How much is a food poisoning lawsuit worth?** Every case is different. Value depends on the severity and permanence of the injury, medical expenses, lost wages, and how strongly the illness can be tied to a contaminated food. Cases range from short, self-resolving illnesses to catastrophic injuries such as kidney failure or paralysis. We can offer a realistic assessment after reviewing your medical records and the outbreak evidence. **How long do I have to file a claim?** Statutes of limitation set the deadline for filing a lawsuit, and they vary by state and by the type of injury—sometimes as little as one year. Because evidence like receipts, leftover product, and medical samples can disappear quickly, it is best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. **Does Marler Clark handle cases nationwide?** Yes. We represent clients across the country and have litigated food poisoning cases in more than 35 states. Claims are often referred to us by attorneys elsewhere, and we work with local counsel where needed, so you do not have to live in Washington to work with us. ### Other Cyclospora Lawsuits [Cyclospora Outbreak Tied to Taylor Farms Lettuce - Marler Clark Files Cases in Multiple States](https://marlerclark.com/cyclospora-outbreak-in-indiana-kentucky-michigan-ohio-and-west-virginia-tied-to-taco-bell-and-taylor-farms) [Fresh Express Bagged Lettuce Linked to Cyclospora Outbreak](https://marlerclark.com/bagged-lettuce-sold-by-aldi-hy-vee-and-jewel-osco-grocery-stores-recalled-after-cyclospora-outbreak) [Cyclospora Tainted Cilantro Sickens 495 in United Sates](https://marlerclark.com/cyclospora-tainted-cilantro-sickens-457-in-united-sates) [Nationwide Cyclospora Outbreak: Iowa & Nebraska Cases Linked to Bagged Salad, Cilantro](https://marlerclark.com/cyclospora-outbreak-in-midwest-linked-to-fresh-produce) ### Lawsuit updates about foodborne illnesses [Reactive Arthritis Lawsuit 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2005](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2005) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2006](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2006) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2007](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2007) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2008](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2008) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2009](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2009) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2010](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2010) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2011](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2011) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2012](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2012) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2013](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2013) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2014](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2014) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2015](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2015) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2016](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2016) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2017](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2017) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2018](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2018) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2019](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2019) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2020](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2020) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2021](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2021) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2022](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2022) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2023](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2023) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2024](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2024) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2025](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2025) [Foodborne Illness Lawsuits in 2026](https://marlerclark.com/news_events/case-news?illness=all&year=2026) ##### Get Help #### Affected by an outbreak or recall? The team at Marler Clark is here to answer all your questions. Find out if you’re eligible for a lawsuit, what questions to ask your doctor, and more. [ Get a free consultation ](https://marlerclark.com/contact) ##### Related Resources ###### [Cyclospora Food Poisoning](https://marlerclark.com/foodborne-illnesses/cyclospora/what-is-cyclospora) What is Cyclospora cayetanensis? Cyclospora cayetanensis is a unicellular, microscopic parasite that can cause food- or water-related gastrointestinal illness. The oocyst form of the parasite is chlorine-resistant and must sporulate... ###### [Epidemiology of Cyclospora](https://marlerclark.com/foodborne-illnesses/cyclospora/epidemiology-of-cyclospora) Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the protozoan parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which is transmissible by ingestion of food or water contaminated with sporulated oocysts. Most cases of cyclosporiasis occur... ###### [Cyclospora’s Mode of Infection](https://marlerclark.com/foodborne-illnesses/cyclospora/cyclosporas-mode-of-infection) The modes of transmission of C. cayetanensis are still not completely understood. Direct person-to-person transmission is unlikely because the oocysts are not infectious when initially shed (unlike Cryptosporidium, another foodborne... ###### [Symptoms of Cyclospora Infection](https://marlerclark.com/foodborne-illnesses/cyclospora/symptoms-of-cyclospora-infection) What are the typical symptoms of Cyclospora infection? Cyclospora infects the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes watery diarrhea, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, flatulence, loss of appetite, nausea, low-grade... ###### [How is Cyclospora Diagnosed?](https://marlerclark.com/foodborne-illnesses/cyclospora/how-is-cyclospora-diagnosed) Cyclosporiasis is usually diagnosed symptomatically in clinical settings, including the presence of watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and bloating. In untreated, immunocompetent people, the diarrhea can last from days to weeks... ##### Outbreak Database #### Looking for a comprehensive list of outbreaks? The team at Marler Clark is here to answer all your questions. Find out if you’re eligible for a lawsuit, what questions to ask your doctor, and more. [ View Outbreak Database ](https://outbreakdatabase.com)