ATLANTA — The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported Tuesday that 1,645 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis have been acquired in the United States since May 1, while more than 5,100 additional illnesses remain under investigation. The number of reported infections represents a sharp increase compared with recent years and has prompted expanded public health investigations across multiple states. The CDC is working with state health departments and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to identify the food sources responsible for the growing outbreak.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which spreads through contaminated food or water. Unlike many foodborne illnesses, the parasite is not commonly transmitted directly from person to person because it must mature in the environment before it becomes infectious. Outbreaks in the United States have frequently been linked to imported fresh produce, including leafy greens, herbs, berries, and other raw fruits and vegetables.
According to the CDC, a significant multistate outbreak centered in Michigan and Ohio has now been linked to illnesses reported in Kentucky and West Virginia. Epidemiologists continue interviewing patients, tracing food purchases, and conducting laboratory testing to determine the common source of exposure. Additional cases under investigation may ultimately be confirmed as part of the same outbreak or linked to separate contamination events.
The District of Columbia has also reported cyclosporiasis cases during the current surveillance period. While the CDC has not indicated that the District’s illnesses are connected to the Michigan-Ohio outbreak, public health officials continue monitoring reports nationwide as investigations proceed.
People infected with Cyclospora commonly develop watery diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. Symptoms may last for several weeks and can recur if left untreated. Some infected individuals experience cycles of improvement followed by a return of diarrhea and abdominal discomfort.
Health officials advise anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea lasting several days, particularly after eating fresh produce or traveling, to seek medical evaluation. Laboratory testing is required to diagnose the parasite because routine stool examinations may not detect it. The recommended treatment is the prescription antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), which is generally effective when started promptly.
The CDC recommends thoroughly washing fresh fruits and vegetables before consumption, although rinsing alone may not completely remove the parasite. Consumers are encouraged to follow any food recalls or public health advisories that may be issued as investigators identify contaminated products.
Federal and state health officials continue to analyze laboratory samples, interview patients, and trace food distribution networks. The CDC expects the number of confirmed cases to change as more than 5,100 pending investigations are completed and additional laboratory results become available.
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By M. Brown, Staff Reporter contributed to this report.
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