What to Know About the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

Cases of cyclosporiasis are climbing across the country this summer, and health officials are urging extra caution around food and water safety. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is tracking the outbreak in real time. As of July 13, the state has recorded almost 3,000 cases and around 50 hospitalizations, though these numbers are expected to continue climbing. Cases have also been reported in Ohio, with additional investigations underway in more than two dozen other states.

This article explains what cyclosporiasis is, how it spreads, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family.

About Cyclosporiasis

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora. Cyclosporiasis is not usually life-threatening, but it can cause weeks of uncomfortable symptoms. Not everyone who is infected will get sick, and person-to-person spread is unlikely, since the parasite needs one to two weeks outside the body before it can infect someone else.

People typically become infected with cyclosporiasis through:

• Consuming fresh produce, such as lettuce, basil, cilantro, raspberries or snow peas, that has been contaminated with feces
• Drinking water that is contaminated
• Swimming or wading in contaminated pools, lakes or other recreational water, since the parasite can survive chlorine treatment

Health officials have not yet identified a single source for the current outbreak, so it’s especially important to understand the symptoms of cyclosporiasis and how to protect the health of you and your family.

Symptoms

Cyclospora infects the small intestine and most commonly causes watery, frequent and sometimes explosive diarrhea. Other common symptoms include:

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Cramping and bloating
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever

Symptoms usually begin one to two weeks after exposure, though this can range from two days to two weeks or more. Without treatment, symptoms may last anywhere from a few days to over a month, and they can even improve before returning.

One risk factor for serious complications is dehydration, which can result from frequent bouts of diarrhea. Symptoms of dehydration include:

• Decreased urination
• Dry mouth and throat
• Dizziness when standing up

Prevention

The CDC recommends practicing safe food and water handling to help lower your risk of cyclosporiasis. Consider taking the following precautions:

• Buy whole heads of lettuce rather than pre-washed, bagged salad mixes.
• Separate and thoroughly wash cilantro and basil leaves.
• Trim the root end and peel the outer layer of green onions.
• Scrub firm produce, such as melons, cucumbers and snow peas, with a clean brush under running water.
• Cook produce when possible, since heating food to 158 degrees Fahrenheit or higher kills the parasite.
• Consider avoiding raw raspberries in areas with active outbreaks, as their bumpy surface makes them especially hard to clean.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after preparing food.

Keep in mind that washing produce can reduce risk but isn’t a guarantee, since Cyclospora can be difficult to rinse away completely. If there is an outbreak in your area, it’s also wise to avoid public swimming areas, since this parasite is resistant to chlorine and can linger in pools, splash pads, lakes and rivers.

Treatment

Cyclosporiasis is typically treated with a course of antibiotics, along with rest and plenty of fluids to help prevent dehydration. Some infections may resolve without treatment, though this can take longer without medical care. If you experience diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours, especially in an area with a known outbreak, contact your healthcare provider for testing and treatment.

Summary

Cyclosporiasis cases have been climbing across multiple states, with Michigan reporting the highest number so far, and health officials are still working to identify the source of a specific outbreak. Because the situation continues to evolve, it’s important to monitor local and national health updates to stay informed and adjust your precautions as needed. In the meantime, following food safety recommendations, such as thoroughly washing and, when possible, cooking your produce, can help reduce your risk of infection.

For additional information or concerns about cyclosporiasis, contact your primary care provider.

Article Published By: Zywave, Inc.