An intestinal parasite outbreak linked to fresh produce is spreading rapidly in the US. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that as of July 9, 843 Cyclospora cases have been reported across 31 states nationwide. The actual number is estimated to be much higher.
Michigan alone recorded 1,562 cases by July 10. While 86 people have been hospitalized nationwide, no deaths have occurred. Patients' ages range from 5 to 88.
Concentrated in the Midwest and Northeast
Since early May, cases have been seen in 31 states, including California, Texas and Florida. The most severe situation has emerged in the Midwest and Northeast, particularly in Michigan and New York. The Ohio Department of Health announced that 177 cases had been identified as of July 2, with the majority recorded in June. Department Director Bruce Vanderhoff stressed that the illness should be taken seriously, as it can lead to dehydration and the need for emergency care.
Source investigation continues
The source of the outbreak has not yet been determined. CDC teams are interviewing patients to try to identify what foods they consumed. However, because symptoms appear 2 days to 2 weeks after infection, it is difficult for people to remember exactly what they ate. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notes that past outbreaks have been linked to raspberries, basil, cilantro, sugar snap peas and salads.
In 2018, McDonald's stopped selling salads in 14 states after federal health agencies linked its salads to dozens of cases. In 2013, lettuce imported from Mexico was thought to have sickened 400 people.
Symptoms and treatment
According to the CDC and Cleveland Clinic, the main symptom of the illness is frequent, watery and severe diarrhea. Additionally, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, bloating, mild fever and extreme fatigue may occur. Symptoms begin 2 days to 2 weeks after infection. A stool test is required for a definitive diagnosis.
Dr. Katie Theoktisto of Baylor Scott & White said, "In some people, the illness can resolve on its own within a few days. However, if stomach upset lasts longer than one or two weeks, a doctor should definitely be consulted." Young children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe illness and are at risk of recurrence.
How to protect yourself?
Experts say the parasite is killed when heated to 70 degrees Celsius, so cooking food is the most effective prevention method. It is recommended to wash fresh vegetables and greens thoroughly and to cut away and discard bruised or damaged parts. Additionally, basic hygiene rules such as washing hands with soap before and after handling fresh produce should be followed.
Treatment includes antibiotics, anti-diarrheal medications and fluid replacement. Those with sulfonamide allergies are given different drugs. The CDC reports that people with healthy immune systems may recover on their own, but in some patients symptoms can last for months and may recur. The Cyclospora parasite is not transmitted from person to person.
