Cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal infection caused by the cyclospora parasite, have continued to increase across the United States, with infections reported in 31 states, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Michigan, the hardest-hit state, reported 2,640 cases on Monday, an increase of more than 1,000 infections since its previous update on Friday.
Michigan health officials said the outbreak has led to 44 hospitalizations, with no deaths reported. Nationwide, the CDC said the outbreak began on May 1. As of July 9, it had confirmed 843 cases across the country, including 86 hospitalizations. The agency noted that its figures may understate the actual total because of delays in reporting from states. Health officials expect case numbers to continue rising, as confirmation of infections can take up to six weeks after exposure.
Michigan has the highest number of patients
Michigan has recorded the highest number of infections, while Ohio and New York have also reported significant case counts. Illinois, Kentucky, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina and Texas have each reported at least 31 cases.
According to the CDC, infections typically increase between May 1 and August 31. Patients affected in the current outbreak range in age from 5 to 88 years, with a median age of 44. Women account for 59% of reported cases.
What is cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection that spreads through food or water contaminated with feces. The infection is most commonly associated with consuming raw fruits and vegetables.
Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea and other gastrointestinal problems, and can range from mild to severe. Children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of serious illness. Although the infection is rarely life-threatening, untreated cases can last for weeks and may require hospitalization because of dehydration.
The United States has experienced previous outbreaks of the disease. Michigan, for example, typically reports between 40 and 50 cases each year.
What is reason behind cyclosporiasis outbreak?
The CDC, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and state health departments have not yet identified the contaminated food responsible for the outbreak.
Investigators are tracing foods eaten or purchased by infected individuals through the supply chain to determine where contamination may have occurred. The investigation may also involve genetic sequencing.
Health officials issue prevention advice
The parasite is generally spread through contaminated food or water and is not commonly transmitted from one person to another.
Michigan health officials said previous outbreaks have been linked to bagged salad mixes and kits, fresh cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas and green onions. Consumers have been advised to buy whole heads of lettuce, discard the outer leaves and cook leafy greens and other produce whenever possible.
Ohio health officials recommend washing hands with soap and water before and after handling raw fruits and vegetables, thoroughly washing produce and scrubbing firm fruits and vegetables with a clean brush.
For people diagnosed with cyclosporiasis, the CDC recommends treatment with the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, commonly sold as Bactrim, taken twice daily for seven to 10 days. People living with HIV may require a longer course of treatment.
