What Is Cyclosporiasis?

You might have noticed recent news reports about food recalls or people getting sick after eating fresh vegetables. The cause of these issues is often a tiny parasite that can make you feel very ill. 

Cyclosporiasis is not as common in the U.S. as other types of food poisoning, such as salmonella or E. coli. However, it can cause severe discomfort and health problems if you don’t get the right care.

Understanding the Basics About Cyclospora

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. This organism is so small that a physician needs a microscope to see it. It is not a bacterium or a virus. Instead, it is a single-celled organism that targets the small intestine. While it can be found year-round in some tropical parts of the world, it usually appears in the U.S. during the warmer months, between May and August.

Most people get this illness after consuming contaminated food or beverages. The parasite usually travels through human waste. This can happen if contaminated water is used to irrigate crops or wash produce. It is unlikely that you would catch this directly from another person because the parasite needs time to become infectious after it leaves the body. 

What Are the Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis?

If you are infected, you will probably start to feel sick about one week later. However, this incubation period can be as short as two days or as long as two weeks. The most common sign of an infection is diarrhea. For many people, this diarrhea can be explosive, meaning high-volume, loud and forceful.

Other common symptoms often include:

• Decreased appetite
• Stomach pain
• Bloating 
• Increased gas
• Nausea
• Extreme fatigue
• Weight loss

Some people also experience vomiting, body aches, headaches and a low-grade fever. If you have a healthy immune system, you might only have mild symptoms or none at all. However, for those with weakened immune systems, children or older adults, the illness can be much more severe. 

Left untreated, the symptoms can last for a month or even longer. They may also seem to go away, only to return later. If you are concerned about your digestive health, you should monitor how you feel closely.

What Foods Are Linked to Cyclospora Outbreaks?

In the past, various types of fresh produce have been linked to outbreaks in the U.S. These include:

• Raspberries
• Basil
• Cilantro
• Parsley
• Lettuce
• Leafy greens
• Snow peas 
• Sugar snap peas

These aren’t the only potential sources of cyclosporiasis, so it’s important to follow the tips below for staying safe. 

Diagnosis and Recovery from Cyclosporiasis

If you think you might have this infection, you should talk to a primary care physician. They will usually ask for a stool sample to look for the parasite.

The good news is that cyclosporiasis is treatable. A physician can prescribe specific antibiotics to help your body get rid of the infection. The most common treatment is an antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Most people who get this medication start feeling better in a few days. If you have a sulfa allergy, there are other options available.

It is also very important to stay hydrated. Severe diarrhea can cause you to lose a lot of fluids and electrolytes. Drinking plenty of water, broth or sports drinks helps support your body while you recover. In very serious cases, some people may need intravenous (IV) fluids. 

Tips for Staying Safe From Cyclosporiasis

There are steps you can take to help protect yourself and your family from cyclosporiasis. Washing your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food is very helpful. You should also wash all fresh produce under running water. Using a vegetable brush on firm items like cucumbers or melons can remove more germs.

Cooking produce to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit is the safest way to kill the parasite. You should also keep your kitchen clean by washing cutting boards, utensils and counters with hot, soapy water. 

Taking these simple actions helps ensure that your summer meals stay safe and healthy.

If you have questions or think you might have contracted cyclosporiasis, contact your Baptist Health primary care physician. You can find one in our provider directory.