Program Description
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis and is typically linked to contaminated fresh produce, resulting in a prolonged or relapsing course of watery diarrhea that can be difficult to distinguish from other causes of gastroenteritis. As one of the most significant foodborne illness outbreaks reported in the US in recent years, cyclosporiasis continues to pose a considerable public health burden in 2026. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole remains the treatment of choice, and updated public health guidance issued in response to the current 2026 multistate outbreak has strengthened recommendations for case identification, diagnostic testing, and clinical management. It is critical that pharmacists are able to recognize the risk factors and clinical presentation of cyclosporiasis, apply current treatment and prevention recommendations, and counsel patients in ways that support adherence and limit further transmission. This activity will review the epidemiology, treatment, and prevention of cyclosporiasis and highlight the public health response to the ongoing outbreak. Upon completion, pharmacists will be better equipped to identify suspected cases, support appropriate treatment, and reinforce prevention strategies through patient education.
Target audience: Ambulatory Care Pharmacist, Health System Pharmacist, Community Pharmacist
Type of activity: Application
Release date: August 13, 2026
Expiration date: August 13, 2027
Learner level: Foundational
Time to complete activity: 0.75 hour
Fee: Free
Educational Objectives
At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
- Discuss the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and risk factors associated with cyclosporiasis, including insights from the ongoing 2026 multistate outbreak
- Outline current evidence supporting the prevention and treatment of cyclosporiasis, including recent public health recommendations issued in response to the 2026 outbreak
- Apply pharmacist-led strategies for therapeutic management, patient counseling, and interdisciplinary collaboration to optimize patient outcomes and reduce disease transmission amid the current outbreak
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