What is Cyclospora? The tiny parasite behind 'diarrhea' outbreak in America - Check causes, symptoms and how to stay safe

Cyclospora is a single-celled parasite that causes an intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis. People usually become infected by eating contaminated fresh produce or drinking water containing the parasite. Common symptoms include frequent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, loss of appetite, bloating, fatigue, and sometimes fever. Symptoms can last for weeks if left untreated. To reduce your risk, wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly, drink safe, clean water, and practice good hand hygiene before handling food. If you develop persistent diarrhea after eating contaminated food or traveling, seek medical care promptly, as cyclospora infection often requires prescription antibiotics for effective treatment.

Cases of cyclosporiasis are rapidly increasing across the United States this summer, reported KCRA 3. Health officials say infections have now been reported in at least 17 states, raising concerns about seasonal outbreaks linked to contaminated food. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as reported by the outlet, 145 cases had been reported nationwide as of June 16. Meanwhile, Michigan has experienced a sharp rise in infections. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 572 confirmed cases in July, a significant increase from 170 cases recorded on June 30, highlighting the rapid spread of the illness in the state.

CAUSES OF CYCLOSPORIASIS


Unlike some infectious diseases, Cyclospora does not spread directly from person to person. Instead, people become infected after eating fresh produce or contaminated drinking water. In the United States, cyclosporiasis is seasonal, with most cases occurring between May and August, when outbreaks are more common. Foods previously linked to Cyclospora include parsley, cilantro, snow peas, spinach, mesclun lettuce, salad mixes, and berries such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. According to Dr. Steven Goldberg, chief medical officer at HealthTrackRx, these foods often have rough or uneven surfaces with tiny crevices where the parasite can cling. This makes Cyclospora difficult to wash away completely, even with careful rinsing, increasing the risk of foodborne infection.

SYMPTOMS OF CYCLOSPORIASIS

The symptoms of Cyclospora infection are watery diarrhea, along with loss of appetite, stomach cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss. Some people may also experience vomiting, headaches, body aches, low-grade fever, and other flu-like symptoms. While many infections improve within a few days, symptoms can persist for weeks if left untreated. According to health experts, people should seek medical attention if they develop a fever, persistent diarrhea, ongoing nausea or vomiting, or are unable to stay hydrated. In more severe or prolonged cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection.

HOW TO STAY SAFE FROM CYCLOSPORIASIS

According to the media outlet, the CDC recommends several steps to reduce the risk of foodborne illness from fresh produce. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling fruits and vegetables. Rinse all produce thoroughly under high flow running water before eating, cutting, or cooking, but avoid rewashing items labeled 'prewashed'. Use a clean produce brush to scrub firm fruits and vegetables like melons and cucumbers, and trim away any bruised or damaged areas. Finally, refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours to help keep them safe to eat.

According to Dr. Goldberg, preventing Cyclospora infection requires more than simply rinsing fruits and vegetables under running water. He recommends gently rubbing or scrubbing the surface of fresh produce by hand to help remove dirt and potential contaminants that may cling to uneven surfaces. However, he advises against using bleach, soap, or household cleaning products, as these are not intended for food and can leave harmful residues. Instead, careful washing with forceful running water and physically cleaning the produce remains the safest way to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.