Approximately 800 domestically acquired cases have been reported since May, as there has been an increase in cases of cyclosporiasis affecting people across 31 states in the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed.
Health officials continue to investigate the sudden increase in the cyclosporiasis outbreak, an intestinal illness that brought 86 new patients to hospitals in recent weeks.
Experts said that many are concerned that the fresh produce during the summer season has contributed to the increase in cases of cyclosporiasis outbreaks. However, they are still investigating whether the food source is actually responsible for the increase in this outbreak.
The experts added that the actual number of infected people is greater than the recorded cases because many may have experienced mild symptoms and did not undergo testing or medical care.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite that spreads when people consume contaminated water or food. Most of these sources are raw, like vegetables, fresh fruits, herbs, or leafy greens.
Unlike other illnesses that spread through human contact, the parasite must thrive outside the human body, where its growth and needs are secured. Its usual growing environment is the contaminated food that people consumed before they became infected.
About one week after exposure, the symptoms began to appear. The signs of illness may appear from two days to two weeks later, depending on the infected person’s immunity.
Most common symptoms may include, but are not limited to, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, watery diarrhea, weight loss, and occasional vomiting. If symptoms are persistent, like diarrhea, they can lead to dehydration if not treated well.
If left without specific treatment, the symptoms can last for several weeks, but the improvement will be on a slower pace.
Health experts warned that people with weaker immune systems, pregnant women, older adults, and young children are at a greater risk of this illness. These specific vulnerable patients must be taken to the nearest healthcare facility, as medical attention can help reduce the symptoms.
Among the 31 states infected with Cyclosporiasis, most cases are reported from Michigan. State health officials have recorded both suspected and confirmed infections. Other states that contributed to most Cyclosporiasis cases are Ohio, Illinois, New York, Florida, and many others.
Identifying the parasite and the source of contamination may take some weeks. Currently, public health experts are interviewing the patients about their last meal consumed and the source of the fresh produce they purchased.
Health experts urged people to continue eating fresh fruits and vegetables, but recommended that people handle food safely and properly. Sanitary habits, such as maintaining a clean, orderly, and fresh kitchen surface before preparing meals, must be observed.
Doctors also recommend consulting with a healthcare provider, which is helpful, especially when experiencing symptoms like persistent diarrhea that may affect your weight, hydration levels, and regular bowel movements. Healthcare providers can also provide the right early treatment for your case to combat the effects of Cyclosporiasis. Health officials urged the public to be well-informed about the outbreak as they continue to monitor the situation.