Recent Outbreak of Cyclosporiasis in the United States

There has been a recent outbreak of a cyclosporiasis infection in the United States that consumers should be aware of to protect their health. The Center for Disease Control currently knows of 466 cases reported throughout the following states: Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York (including New York City), Ohio, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Cyclosporiasis infections have been linked to pre-packaged salad mixes. While this infection has not caused any deaths, it has caused 27 hospitalizations.  The CDC says it is not yet clear whether all the cases in various states came from the same outbreak. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The time between becoming infected and becoming sick is usually one week. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea and fatigue.  It should be noted that some individuals who become infected might not have any symptoms at all.

If the infection is not treated, symptoms could last anywhere from a few days to a month or more. It is also very common to feel tired. If you think you might have been infected with cyclosporiasis, please contact your physician for treatment. If you are infected, your physician will be able to treat the infection with antibiotics. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids if infected as well, because this will help flush out your system.

For more information on this outbreak, please visit the CDC website here: http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/cyclosporiasis/outbreaks/investigation-2013-qa.html. Remember to always take care of your health.