U.S. — Health experts are refuting claims by current and former members of Congress that ivermectin is an effective treatment for cyclosporiasis as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 1,645 confirmed cases and 141 hospitalizations across 34 states. Public health officials emphasize that the antiparasitic drug is not appropriate for treating this specific infection, even as lawmakers promote it on social media.

Current and former members of Congress have been actively promoting ivermectin as a treatment for cyclosporiasis online. Rep. Nancy Mace claimed that "Ivermectin solves the problem," and separately criticized South Carolina’s requirement that the drug be obtained only with a prescription. Former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene promoted ivermectin in a social media post that included a discount code for an online pharmacy and wrote that ivermectin and the antiparasitic medication mebendazole can "kill parasites."

Health experts state that ivermectin is not an appropriate treatment for cyclosporiasis. Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, a single-celled organism whose biological structure renders ivermectin ineffective. While the Food and Drug Administration has approved ivermectin to treat certain parasitic infections—by disrupting the nervous system of susceptible parasites—it does not work against Cyclospora.

Kalmia Kniel, a food safety specialist and professor at the University of Delaware, stated that cyclosporiasis is typically treated with a combination of antibiotics known as TMP-SMX or co-trimoxazole. This medication is sold under brand names including Bactrim and Septra. Healthcare providers usually treat cyclosporiasis with these antibiotics along with antidiarrheal medications, and may suggest hydration with water, electrolyte sports drinks, or intravenous fluids for severe cases.

The CDC is tracking outbreaks of the foodborne illness cyclosporiasis, which is a form of food poisoning caused by a parasite transmitted through contaminated food or water. As of July 13, the agency reported 1,645 confirmed cases and 141 hospitalizations linked to the infection across 34 states. Health officials stated that cyclosporiasis infection is not fatal and that direct person-to-person transmission is unlikely.

Health officials are urging people and restaurants to follow food safety protocols carefully due to the spread of cyclosporiasis. The CDC recommends thoroughly washing all fruits and vegetables to avoid infection and advises avoiding buying bagged produce as a preventive measure.

With over 1,600 confirmed cases and more than 140 hospitalizations reported by mid-July across a majority of U.S. states, public health authorities are working to contain a significant cyclosporiasis outbreak. Misinformation about ineffective treatments like ivermectin could delay proper medical care and complicate outbreak response efforts, as the recommended therapy—TMP-SMX—is distinct from the antiparasitic drugs being promoted online.

The CDC’s guidance on food handling, including washing produce and avoiding pre-bagged items, underscores that the primary route of transmission is through contaminated food, not person-to-person contact. Ensuring the public receives accurate treatment and prevention information is critical as cases continue to be reported nationwide.