Cyclosporiasis Update
Cyclosporiasis is an infection of the intestine caused by a parasite called Cyclospora (SIGH-clo-SPORE-uh). Cyclosporiasis is not spread directly from person-to-person. Infected people pass Cyclospora in their feces (stool), but this form of the parasite cannot make people sick. The parasite needs time (days to weeks) in the environment to change into a form that can make people sick. This form of the parasite then can infect someone by entering the body through the mouth, typically by eating or drinking something that is contaminated with Cyclospora. Cyclosporiasis usually causes watery diarrhea with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements. Other symptoms can include loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, low-grade fever, and fatigue. Some people who are infected with Cyclospora do not have any symptoms. Symptoms usually appear within one week after exposure. Past outbreaks of cyclosporiasis in the United States have been linked to imported fresh produce, such as raspberries, basil, lettuce, and snow peas. The produce involved in each outbreak was probably contaminated in the country where it was grown.
Several states are currently experiencing a significant increase in cases of cyclosporiasis and some have detected outbreaks. States are working together with federal partners to investigate these outbreaks. The investigations to identify source(s) of illness are ongoing.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is closely monitoring and investigating reported cyclosporiasis cases. There is not currently evidence that Virginia is experiencing an outbreak. The number of cyclosporiasis cases reported to VDH typically increase in the spring and summer months, and are posted on the Monthly Morbidity Report.
What VDH does:
- Local health districts interview ill people and gather data on when they became sick, their travel history, and foods consumed.
- This epidemiologic information is then reviewed for any commonalities among cases, which is how we are able to detect food items that are potential exposure risks and potential outbreaks.
- Coordinate with state and federal partners on epidemiologic investigations.
- Share information with the general public when health risks are identified.
To prevent cyclosporiasis:
- Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
- Wash hands carefully with soap and water before and after food preparation, and after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
- Travelers, especially to tropical areas, should avoid eating raw or undercooked foods or drinking untreated water.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of cyclosporiasis should visit their healthcare provider. They can test for Cyclospora and prescribe the correct treatment. Physicians should report cases to their local health department. If you have been ill recently with diarrhea or vomiting or other gastrointestinal illness and believe it might be related to a restaurant or other food establishment, you can report your illness to My Meal Detective.
General Information
VDH Fact Sheet on Cyclosporiasis
Reporting and Surveillance
Virginia Reportable Disease List
