Cyclospora outbreaks are on the rise in the United States, with nearly 2,000 cases and over 100 hospitalizations reported to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The largest cluster of cases has been reported in Michigan, with over 3,000 cases recorded by the state’s health and human services department.
What is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a foodborne parasite that can cause a diarrheal illness. According to Dr. Steven Goldberg, chief medical officer for HealthTrackRx, cyclospora is typically found in fresh produce such as parsley, cilantro, snow peas, and salad mixes.
The parasite does not spread through human-to-human transmission and is passed on through contaminated food. Cyclospora infections are seasonal, with cases rising in spring and summer. The cyclosporiasis season runs from May 1 to August 31.
Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis
Symptoms of cyclosporiasis include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, and increased gas. Less common symptoms may include vomiting, body aches, headache, and low-grade fever.
To prevent cyclospora, the CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables. It is also important to wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
