CDC Warns About Rising Cyclosporiasis Cases Across the U.S.

Cases of Cyclosporiasis, a foodborne parasitic illness, are rising in the United States. The outbreak spans 34 states with nearly 7,000 cases confirmed or under investigation. CDC Deputy Director Gwen Biggerstaff emphasizes the severity of symptoms, including diarrhea and cramping, urging those affected to consult doctors for specific antibiotic treatments. The CDC expects to identify the outbreak’s source soon.

Health officials caution that many people might mistake Cyclosporiasis for a typical summer stomach bug. The current outbreak is among the largest foodborne parasite incidents recorded in the U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirms over 1,600 cases since May, with more than 5,100 additional cases being investigated. The parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis causes this intestinal infection, spreading through contaminated food or water.

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Thousands, particularly in Midwestern states like Michigan and Ohio, suffer from prolonged severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Symptoms usually begin about a week after consuming contaminated food or water, though the incubation period ranges from two days to two weeks, according to the CDC. Patients should seek diagnostic testing through their primary care physician, reserving emergency departments for severe dehydration treatment.

Early symptoms overlap with those of common viral stomach bugs, including abdominal pain, nausea, and watery diarrhea. Some experience appetite loss, fatigue, and weight loss. Dr. Kenneth Perry, an emergency physician in South Carolina, notes the primary differences are illness duration and symptom severity.

Routine stomach bugs typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Cyclospora, however, lasts longer, causing more intense watery, foul-smelling diarrhea and abdominal cramping.

Cyclospora testing requires specific requests, as standard stool tests and many gastrointestinal PCR panels do not detect it. Diagnosis involves examining stool specimens, and patients may need to submit multiple samples over different days, as symptomatic individuals may not easily shed the parasite.

If symptoms suggest Cyclospora despite a negative test, retesting may be necessary. Primary care physicians are best for diagnosis, as most emergency department stool tests do not screen for Cyclospora. Family doctors can order specialized tests if Cyclospora is suspected.

The emergency department is suited for treating symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and dehydration. Those suspecting the parasite can check FDA and CDC food safety alerts for exposure to recalled or implicated products.

Hydration is crucial, so patients should monitor urine output. Over-the-counter pediatric formulas are recommended, providing a better salt-to-sugar ratio than sports drinks.

Diarrhea lasting over two to three days, worsening, or accompanied by dehydration signs warrants contacting a primary care physician. Unlike most viral stomach bugs, Cyclospora is treatable with prescription antibiotics. The CDC recommends trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) as standard, while those who cannot take sulfa drugs should discuss alternatives with a healthcare provider.

Khloe Quill is a lifestyle writer with Fox News Digital, covering food, drink, travel, and health stories.