Indiana Reports More Than 300 Cyclospora Cases
An intestinal illness that can cause severe, prolonged diarrhea is spreading across Indiana, and health officials are still working to determine the cause of the outbreak.
According to the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH), 327 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported since May 1. Indiana isn't alone, either. Several other Midwestern states are also seeing an increase in cases and investigating possible outbreaks.
So far, health officials have not identified the source of many of the illnesses.
What is Cyclospora?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanesis.
People become infected after consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Unlike some stomach illnesses, person-to-person spread is considered unlikely.
In previous U.S. outbreaks, Cyclospora has been linked to fresh produce, including:
- Bagged salad mixes
- Leafy greens
- Cilantro
- Basil
- Green onions
- Rasperries
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Snow peas
Officials stress that none of those foods have been identified as the source of Indiana's current outbreak.
Symptoms Can Last for Weeks
Symptoms typically begin about one week after exposure, although they can appear anywhere from 2 to 14 days later.
Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Gas
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Body aches
- Fever
Without treatment, symptoms can last for several weeks or even come and go in cycles.
What to Do If You Get Sick
Most healthy people recover without treatment, but antibiotics are available if needed.
The Indiana Department of Health recommends contacting your healthcare provider if you develop severe or ongoing diarrhea. Your provider may need to request testing for Cyclospora specifically, and because the parasite isn't always detected right away, multiple tests may be necessary.
Staying hydrated is also important, especially if diarrhea is severe.
How to Lower Your Risk
While investigators continue searching for the source, the Indiana Department of Health recommends several food safety practices to reduce your risk:
- Wash fresh fruits and vegetables under running water.
- Choose whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-packaged salad mixes when possible.
- Wash herbs like cilantro and basil thoroughly.
- Cook produce whenever practical, as heat kills the parasite.
- Wash your hands before preparing food and after using the restroom.
- Clean and sanitize cutting boards, knives, countertops, and other food preparation surfaces.
If you're experiencing symptoms and later test positive for Cyclospora, public health officials may contact you to help identify where the outbreak originated
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