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How cyclospora's biology has created the perfect infectious storm

NPR | By Pien Huang
Published July 30, 2026 at 3:30 PM CDT

Cyclospora, the parasite that's been wreaking havoc in people's digestive systems over the past month, starts with a single cell. The parasite passes through human intestines to reproduce. Their complex biology contributes to why it's so hard to kick, leading to infections that can last for weeks or months.

Copyright 2026 NPR
Pien Huang
Pien Huang is a health reporter on the Science desk. She was NPR's first Reflect America Fellow, working with shows, desks and podcasts to bring more diverse voices to air and online.
See stories by Pien Huang
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