This is a fascinating reminder that parasite prevention has played a significant role not only in veterinary medicine, but also in shaping how people and pets live together as family. Maintaining that progress requires continued education, access to veterinary care, and consistent prevention-even when the diseases and infestations we are preventing are no longer highly visible.
The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) supports this work by bringing together veterinarians, veterinary parasitologists, public health experts, and other animal health professionals to develop evidence-based parasite-control guidance. Its interactive Parasite Prevalence Maps allow pet families and veterinary professionals to explore reported risks for heartworm, tick-borne diseases, intestinal parasites, and other infections by location. These maps can help communities better understand that parasite exposure varies geographically and can change over time.
Recent Cyclospora activity also demonstrates why "success amnesia" can extend beyond veterinary medicine. In July 2026, the CDC and FDA announced investigations into multiple clusters of cyclosporiasis. A major outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico affected more than 1,644 people in five states and resulted in 94 hospitalizations. Follow the CDC's current Cyclospora outbreak investigation and recall guidance.
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a foodborne parasite that infects humans; pets are not known hosts. However, the outbreak still reflects a One Health issue because human health is influenced by food production, water quality, environmental contamination, surveillance systems, and public-health communication. Together, these examples reinforce the importance of proactive prevention and coordinated human, veterinary, and environmental health systems in protecting people, pets, and their shared environments.
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T' Fisher, Director of Operations
Center for Pet Family Well-Being
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