Health officials are monitoring cases of cyclosporiasis in Texas as part of a broader multi-state outbreak of the food borne illness across the United States.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cases in the U.S. typically increase during the late spring and summer months.
Recent CDC data shows that 145 cases were reported across 17 states, including Texas, between May 1 and June 16. Several states, including Texas, have reported growing case numbers, with some of the highest increases seen in the Midwest. While the CDC is still investigating whether the cases are linked to a single outbreak, they say there is no evidence at this time to support a single, multi-state Cyclospora outbreak that links all cases.
According to the CDC, Cyclosporiasis is not typically spread from person to person. Instead, the CDC states that people become infected by consuming contaminated food or water. Past outbreaks have been linked to cilantro, basil, lettuce, raspberries, and packaged salad mixes.
While past cases may have been linked to these items, that doesn’t mean you have to stop eating them altogether. The CDC recommends washing your hands, thoroughly washing produce under running water before consumption, and cutting away any damaged or bruised areas from fruit or vegetables before consuming.
Because individual cases are often difficult to identify, recognizing symptoms is also an important step. According to the CDC, symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure and commonly include diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, and fatigue.
While the illness is rarely life-threatening, it can lead to prolonged symptoms and dehydration, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. Health officials note that proper diagnosis is important, as cyclosporiasis requires specific antibiotic treatment.
For more information about cyclosporiasis, you can visit the CDC website or contact your local healthcare provider with any questions about symptoms or possible exposure.