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CDC Reports More Than 1,600 Confirmed Cyclosporiasis Cases Since May
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed over 1,600 domestic cases of the parasitic infection, with more than 5,100 additional cases under investigation. The outbreak has primarily affected people in Michigan and Ohio.
Jul 17, 7:00 AM·1m read1 source
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed more than 1,600 domestic cases of cyclosporiasis since May, Fox News reported. Health officials are also investigating over 5,100 additional cases. The intestinal infection is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which spreads through contaminated food or water.
The outbreak has sickened thousands of people, particularly in Michigan and Ohio. Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure, though the incubation period ranges from two days to two weeks. Early signs include abdominal pain, nausea and watery diarrhea, along with possible loss of appetite, fatigue and weight loss.
Routine stomach bugs typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Cyclospora infection lasts longer and produces more severe symptoms, according to Dr. Kenneth Perry, an emergency physician based in South Carolina.
"Cyclospora is different in this regard," Perry told Fox News Digital. " Healthcare providers must specifically request testing for Cyclospora because it is not included in standard stool tests. Diagnosis requires examination of stool specimens, and patients may need to submit multiple samples collected on different days.
The infection is treatable with the prescription antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. People who cannot take sulfa drugs should discuss alternatives with their healthcare provider.
