The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a rise in cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic gastrointestinal infection, reported across 34 states. As of the latest report, there are 1,645 confirmed cases, although the actual number is likely higher due to underreporting and symptom lag. Michigan has notably reported 3,309 cases.
Hospitalizations and Outbreak Clusters
The CDC reports 141 hospitalizations nationwide with no deaths. Several clusters of cases are being studied, including a multistate outbreak affecting Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. The illness typically spreads through contaminated food or water, not person-to-person contact.
The source of this outbreak is what we eat or drink, stated Gwen Biggerstaff of the CDC.
Current Trends and Historical Context
Cyclosporiasis cases typically increase during spring and summer. However, multiple states reported a significant rise over the past two weeks compared to the previous year, with only 249 cases at the same time last year.
Geographic Spread
Since May, cases have appeared from California to Texas to Florida, with significant impacts in the Midwest and Northeast, particularly Michigan and New York. Ohio has reported 177 cases, primarily in June.
Health Impacts
Cyclosporiasis can cause dehydration, requiring emergency medical care. The age of affected individuals ranges from 5 to 88 years old. The CDC anticipates more cases due to the time lag between infection and reporting.
Investigating the Outbreak
The CDC is working to identify the infection source by interviewing affected individuals. Identifying the source is difficult, as symptoms appear two days to two weeks after infection, complicating recall of consumed foods. Past outbreaks have been linked to produce like raspberries, basil, and lettuce.
Prevention Measures
Properly cooking produce kills Cyclospora. Public health officials advise rinsing fresh produce thoroughly, even items labeled prewashed. Hand washing before and after handling food is crucial.
If You Have Symptoms
The CDC advises those with symptoms, especially prolonged diarrhea, to seek medical help. Dr. Kawsar Talaat of Johns Hopkins says the symptoms can include fatigue and appetite loss. Seeing a doctor is recommended if symptoms persist.
Talaat highlights the epidemiological significance of reporting symptoms. Testing for cyclosporiasis requires specific stool tests as standard tests might not detect the parasite. It may take multiple samples to confirm the infection.
For treatment, the antibiotic trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim or Septra) is effective for a seven to ten-day course. Talaat emphasizes the importance of testing and treatment for those at higher risk of complications.