In the last weeks, reported cases of cyclospora infection – or cyclosporiasis – have skyrocketed across the nation, resulting in an outbreak that has sickened thousands and affected communities in at least 34 states, so far.

Often underreported and inherently difficult to track, private, state and federal organizations have rushed to uncover the cause of the recent outbreak, but answers are not always readily available.

Regardless of the cause of this latest outbreak, here’s what you need to know to keep you and your family healthy and well.

What Is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora, or Cyclospora cayetanensis, is a harmful microscopic parasite that is only found in human feces. This parasite leaves the body dormant but quickly matures into a highly infectious pathogen.

If ingested, most often through unwashed produce or contaminated water, Cyclospora invades and attacks the lining of the small intestine – particularly the upper small intestine – causing painful symptoms, the hallmark being relentless watery diarrhea.

The illness is called cyclosporiasis.

Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis

Symptoms typically arise one or two weeks after ingesting the Cyclospora parasite – a key factor making any Cyclospora outbreak inherently difficult to trace back to its origin – and, without treatment, may last for a few days or longer than a month. The most prominent symptoms, such as diarrhea, may seem to resolve, only to return days later. Secondary symptoms, such as fatigue, may linger long after any intestinal upset has eased.

The common symptoms to look out for are:

Although not typically life-threatening, the disease can be much more pronounced in the elderly and immune-compromised, leading to risk of serious dehydration.

Treating Cyclosporiasis

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of cyclosporiasis, seek treatment from a healthcare professional. Cyclosporiasis is very treatable, most often simply with antibiotics, bedrest and hydration.

Although a healthy immune system will likely be able to fight off a Cyclosporiasis infection eventually, the illness could last as long as a month or more. You may also experience relapses, as your body works to clear the last of the parasite out of your system.

If you’re not sure where to seek treatment for Cyclosporiasis, click here find the SMH Urgent Care Center nearest you.

Preventing Cyclosporiasis Infection

Even better than effective treating Cyclosporiasis is never getting the illness in the first place. Thankfully, there are some quick and simple ways to vastly reduce your risk of having a really, really bad time.

• Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, preparing, or cooking. Take particular care with leafy greens, as well as raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries, which have plenty of nooks and crannies for Cyclospora to hide in.
• Scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
• Remove outer layers of vegetables such as green onions, lettuce, and cabbage, to reduce risk of contamination.
• Cook produce to a temperature of at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit, to kill the parasite.
• Clean the kitchen counters, cutting boards, utensils and dishes after use.
• Avoid untreated water. Do not drink or use for cooking.
• Avoid swimming if you have diarrhea.

Cyclospora is a nasty parasite and cyclosporiasis is even worse. Practice proper food hygiene and safety, so you never have to find out.

 

Written by Sarasota Memorial copywriter Philip Lederer, MA, who crafts a variety of external communications for the healthcare system. SMH’s in-house wordsmith, Lederer earned his Master’s degree in Public Administration and Political Philosophy from Morehead State University, KY, and has a bone to pick with iceberg lettuce.