Severity of Cyclosporiasis and Its Spread Across the U.S.

Cases of Cyclosporiasis, a foodborne parasitic illness, are increasing in 34 states. Nearly 7,000 cases are confirmed or under investigation. Gwen Biggerstaff, CDC Deputy Director, emphasizes the severity of symptoms like diarrhea and cramping. She advises consulting doctors for specific antibiotic treatments. The CDC aims to identify the outbreak’s source soon.

Health officials caution that what seems like a routine summer stomach bug may be cyclosporiasis. The U.S. faces one of its largest outbreaks of this foodborne parasite. The CDC has confirmed over 1,600 domestic cases since May, with more than 5,100 additional cases under investigation.

The infection is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. It spreads via contaminated food or water.

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Thousands have fallen ill, particularly in Midwestern states like Michigan and Ohio. Symptoms include severe gastrointestinal issues.

Symptoms typically begin a week after exposure, with an incubation period of two days to two weeks, according to the CDC. Diagnostic testing through primary care is crucial. Emergency departments should treat severe dehydration cases.

Initial symptoms mimic a common stomach bug: abdominal pain, nausea, and watery diarrhea. Some patients also lose appetite, feel fatigued, and suffer weight loss.

Dr. Kenneth Perry, an emergency physician, highlights key differences. Routine stomach bugs often resolve within 24-48 hours. Cyclospora causes longer-lasting, more severe symptoms.

Testing specifically for Cyclospora is necessary. Standard stool tests and many PCR panels do not detect this parasite, per the CDC. Diagnosis involves examining stool specimens. Several samples may be needed as symptomatic individuals might not shed enough parasite to detect easily.

If symptoms suggest Cyclospora, but tests are negative, re-screening might be needed. Primary care physicians can order specialized tests, as emergency departments typically do not screen for Cyclospora in routine tests.

Check FDA and CDC food safety alerts for potential exposure to recalled products. Cyclospora infections linger much longer than typical viruses, causing severe, watery diarrhea. Staying hydrated and monitoring urine output are vital. Over-the-counter pediatric formulas offer effective hydration.

Anyone experiencing diarrhea for more than two to three days should consult their primary care physician. Cyclosporiasis is treatable with prescription antibiotics. The CDC recommends trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). Alternatives are available for those who cannot take sulfa drugs.