With more than 1,600 confirmed US cases and thousands more under investigation, the company says its molecular diagnostics can help laboratories rapidly identify the foodborne parasite.
QIAGEN highlighted its portfolio of molecular testing solutions to support the public health response to a rising number of cyclosporiasis cases in the US. Since May 2026, health authorities have confirmed more than 1,600 cases, with an additional 7,000 potential cases under investigation, according to a company press release.
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a foodborne parasite that causes prolonged diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Because the parasite is not detected through routine stool culture, it requires specialized diagnostic methods, including molecular testing.
“The current rise in cyclosporiasis cases highlights the need for rapid, reliable detection to support timely patient care and effective public health action,” says Nitin Sood, SVP and head of product portfolio and innovation at QIAGEN, in a release.
Diagnostic and Research Tools
The company’s portfolio includes the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared QIAstat-Dx Gastrointestinal Panel 2. This syndromic test includes Cyclospora cayetanensis as a standard target within its 16-target menu for bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogens. The system is designed to deliver results in approximately one hour, allowing laboratories to test for the parasite alongside other common causes of gastrointestinal illness from a single patient sample.
For research and public health applications, the company offers a digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Microbial DNA Detection Assay for use with the QIAcuity digital PCR system. This assay is intended for research use only and provides sensitive detection of the parasite in research and public health settings.
Additionally, the company’s sequencing portfolio includes the PulseNet-approved QIAseq FX DNA Library Prep Kit. This kit is used for research with next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms to support shotgun sequencing workflows. These workflows analyze all DNA in a sample to help identify and characterize foodborne pathogens for PulseNet, the US public health laboratory network that detects and investigates foodborne disease outbreaks.
“QIAGEN is ready to support laboratories and public health authorities worldwide with molecular testing technologies that help detect infections, guide investigations and strengthen responses to emerging disease threats,” says Sood in a release.
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