Cyclospora Infection: Symptoms, Treatment, and Food Safety Prevention Tips
With cyclosporiasis cases rising across the United States, Beebe Healthcare is highlighting the importance of food safety and sharing what you need to know about this intestinal infection.
Delaware has now confirmed its first case of cyclosporiasis, according to the Delaware Division of Public Health. There have been 1,645 confirmed cases across the country and another 5,000-plus are under investigation in 34 states.
Understanding how cyclosporiasis spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and when to seek medical care can help protect your health.
What is cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by infection with the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
The FDA’s investigation into the current outbreak is still ongoing. Investigators initially identified a supplier of shredded iceberg lettuce as the source, but the agency later determined that this was a false positive. Public health officials are continuing to investigate the exact source of contamination.
Unlike other illnesses that spread directly from person to person, Cyclospora is caused by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water.
What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?
Symptoms usually develop about one week after exposure, but timing can vary.
Common symptoms include:
- Frequent, watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating and gas
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
Symptoms may come and go and might last for several weeks or longer without treatment.
Since diarrhea can lead to fluid loss, dehydration is a key concern. If symptoms continue, it’s important to make sure that you’re drinking enough fluids.
How does cyclosporiasis spread?
Cyclosporiasis spreads when someone consumes food or water contaminated with Cyclospora.
The parasite is most commonly found on contaminated produce, including raw fruits, vegetables and herbs. Washing produce well and practicing food safety can help reduce your risk of infection.
At this time despite the false positive, public health officials are still advising consumers to avoid eating recalled iceberg lettuce products while they continue to determine the source of the outbreak.
Some people may be at higher risk for complications. These individuals include:
- Young children
- Older adults
- Pregnant individuals
- People with weakened immune systems
- Anyone at increased risk of dehydration
When to seek medical care
If diarrhea lasts more than a few days, gets worse, or causes signs of dehydration, contact your healthcare provider.
Make sure to seek medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent diarrhea
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration, including dizziness, dry mouth, extreme thirst, or decreased urination
- Blood in the stool
- Fever or worsening symptoms
- Symptoms that improve and then return
Your healthcare provider can determine if testing is needed and recommend the right treatment. Cyclosporiasis is often treated with prescription medication, especially when symptoms last longer or become more severe.
How to protect yourself
Food safety practices are one of the best ways to lower your risk of cyclosporiasis.
To help protect yourself and your family:
- Wash fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs under running water before eating.
- Wash your hands with soap and water before preparing and eating food.
- Clean cutting boards, utensils, and kitchen surfaces after preparing produce.
- Store fresh foods correctly in the refrigerator.
- Avoid consuming food or water that may be contaminated.
- Use extra caution with food and water when traveling.
- Stay up to date on food recalls and safety alerts.
Washing produce may not remove all germs or parasites, which makes proper handling and storage equally important.
Stay informed about cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis can cause uncomfortable and sometimes long-lasting symptoms, but most people recover with the right treatment. Recognizing symptoms, practicing food safety, and knowing when to seek care are important ways to manage your health.
