Cyclosporiasis cases on the rise in Monroe County, health officials say
FOX 2 Detroit • • health
Key Points:
- Monroe County Health Department is investigating an outbreak of Cyclosporiasis among local residents, seeking to identify a common source of infection.
- Cyclosporiasis is a diarrheal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, typically spread through contaminated food or water, especially fresh produce.
- Symptoms appear 2 days to 2 weeks after exposure and include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal cramps, nausea, and low-grade fever; untreated cases may last weeks with recurring symptoms.
- Health officials advise residents to seek medical testing and treatment if symptomatic and recommend thorough washing and proper handling of fruits and vegetables to prevent infection.
- The illness is not spread person-to-person, and prevention focuses on avoiding contaminated food and water and maintaining good hygiene with produce.
