Cyclosporiasis is a kind of food poisoning that's caused by a parasite. Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis can happen when produce is washed in contaminated water.
Cyclosporiasis spreads when the microscopic spores of a parasite contaminate water or fresh produce. It causes severe stomach cramps, bloating, and diarrhea that can linger for weeks if left untreated. While cyclosporiasis is rarely fatal, it can cause severe, prolonged illness in infants and people with weakened immune systems. Cyclosporiasis is named after the parasite that causes it, Cyclospora, whose name comes from Greek roots meaning "circle spore."