Cyclospora

Cyclospora is a newly-recognized parasite that can cause a diarrheal illness. In the summer of 1998, a large outbreak occurred in the eastern United States due to contaminated raspberries imported from Guatemala.

Who gets Cyclospora?
Persons of all ages are at risk for infection. In the past, Cyclospora infection was usually found in persons living or traveling in tropical countries. More and more, cases are being recognized in countries such as the United States and Canada.

How is Cyclospora spread?
Cyclospora is transmitted by a person putting something in his or her mouth that has been contaminated with infected stool (feces). For example, the parasite can be transmitted by swallowing contaminated water or food. Outbreaks in North America have been associated with various types of fresh produce. When passed in an infected person's stool, Cyclospora may require some time (days to weeks) in a moist environment before becoming infectious. It is therefore unlikely that cyclospora is spread directly from one person to another.

What are the symptoms of Cyclospora?
Cyclospora infects the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes watery diarrhea, with frequent bowel movements. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, muscle aches, and low-grade fever. Symptoms may subside and then return. Untreated the illness may last a few days to a month or even longer. Some persons infected with Cyclospora do not develop any symptoms.

How soon after infection do symptoms occur?
The time between becoming infected and developing symptoms is usually about a week.

How is Cyclospora diagnosed?
If you think you may be infected with Cyclospora, you should consult your physician. Identification of this parasite in stool requires special laboratory tests that are not routinely used. Therefore, your physician should specifically request testing for Cyclospora. More than one stool sample collected on different days may be needed. Your physician may also want to have your stool checked for other infectious organisms that can cause similar symptoms.

What is the treatment for Cyclospora?
Infection with Cyclospora is treated with antibiotics: trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is recommended. Infected persons with diarrhea should rest and drink plenty of fluids. They should seek their physician's advice before taking medicine to slow their diarrhea.

How can Cyclospora be prevented?
Cyclospora infection can be prevented by avoiding water or food that may be contaminated with stool. Uncooked fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly before eaten. Always thoroughly wash hands with soap and water before handling food, after using the toilet or changing diapers, after handling animal stools (feces), and after gardening or other direct contact with soil. Do not drink water directly from streams, lakes, springs or swimming pools. Boil water for 1 minute at a rolling boil whenever you are unsure of the safety of the water supply.

** Note **

Please remember that the information presented in this forum is for your education only, and is not intended to extend medical advice or diagnosis. If you have questions or feel that you may be experiencing symptoms similar to those presented, please call the Berkeley County Health Department at (304) 263-5131 or your primary care provider for formal medical attention.