Cyclosporiasis: Number of parasitic stomach bug cases growing
WSB-TV • • health
Key Points:
- The CDC is monitoring a surge in cyclosporiasis cases, with over 843 confirmed infections across 31 states, including more than a dozen in Georgia, though actual numbers may be higher due to underreporting.
- Cyclosporiasis is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which spreads through contaminated food or water, often due to improper handwashing by food handlers.
- Symptoms include loss of appetite and frequent diarrhea, as experienced by a Michigan resident who linked his illness to specific salads.
- Health experts recommend thoroughly washing produce and choosing fruits and vegetables with protective skins to reduce infection risk, emphasizing washing the peel of fruits like oranges before cutting.
- The CDC and local health officials continue to advise caution as cases rise, highlighting the importance of food safety practices to prevent further spread.
