Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can affect the intestinal tract and cause diarrhea. It is an uncommon disease in the United States and is occasionally associated with foreign travel. Cyclospora infections can occur in people of all ages. Cyclospora is spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Outbreaks in the United States […]
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can affect the intestinal tract and cause diarrhea. It is an uncommon disease in the United States and is occasionally associated with foreign travel. Cyclospora infections can occur in people of all ages. Cyclospora is spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Outbreaks in the United States have been associated with imported raspberries and with other fresh produce. Although the route of transmission is unclear, animals may additionally play some role in transmission.
The incubation period is generally one week after consumption of the contaminated food or water. Watery diarrhea is the most common symptom. It may last a few days to a month or longer. Other symptoms can include loss of appetite, weight loss, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
A stool test performed at a laboratory is needed to make the diagnosis. The immature stage of the Cyclospora parasite can be identified using specialized laboratory methods. Routine stool tests may fail to detect the parasite so health care providers must specifically request the laboratory test for Cyclospora when this infection is suspected in a patient. The recommended treatment involves a combination antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, also known as Bactrim or Septra. Individuals should avoid water or food that may be contaminated with stool or feces. All fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly.
If you or a loved one developed the waterborne/foodborne ailment Cyclospora as a result of drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated food and you suffered serious health ailments, please fill out the form at the right for a free case evaluation or call us at 1-800-YOURLAWYER (1-800-968-7529).
