A multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis has brought renewed attention to Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that can cause prolonged intestinal illness. Infection occurs when a person consumes food or water contaminated with the parasite. In the United States, previous outbreaks have often been linked to fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Symptoms usually appear about one week after exposure, although they may begin within a few days or take two weeks or longer to develop.
Common symptoms include:
- Frequent, watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps, discomfort, or bloating
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Increased gas
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Low-grade fever
Symptoms can continue for several weeks without treatment and may seem to improve before returning. Cyclosporiasis is typically treated with a prescription antibiotic.
Reduce Your Risk When Preparing Produce
Good handwashing and careful food preparation can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling fresh produce.
Rinse fruits and vegetables under clean, running water before eating, cutting, or cooking them—even when the package says they have been prewashed. Use a clean produce brush to scrub firm items such as cucumbers and melons, and cut away bruised or damaged areas.
Washing produce may lower the risk of contamination, but it may not remove Cyclospora completely. Cooking food to an internal temperature of 158 degrees Fahrenheit can kill the parasite.
When to Contact the Medical Center of Dimmitt
Contact the Medical Center of Dimmitt if you experience watery diarrhea that lasts more than a few days, particularly when it is accompanied by fatigue, stomach discomfort, appetite loss, or weight loss.
Cyclosporiasis is diagnosed through a stool sample and testing specifically ordered for Cyclospora. Because routine stool testing may not automatically include this parasite, tell your clinician about your symptoms, recent travel, and any fresh produce you ate before becoming ill.
To schedule an appointment with the Medical Center of Dimmitt, call 806-647-2194 .
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
