So you think you caught cyclospora, the diarrhea-causing parasite. Here’s what to do next

Key Points:

• Thousands of cyclospora cases have been reported in Michigan and across 34 states since May, linked to contaminated shredded iceberg lettuce sold at Taco Bell, supplied by Taylor Fresh Foods, which is removing affected lettuce from the US market.
• Symptoms of cyclosporiasis include frequent watery diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and can last weeks or longer, with severe dehydration as a major health risk, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and immunocompromised.
• Diagnosis requires stool sample testing, often needing multiple samples and specific requests for cyclospora testing, as routine gastrointestinal tests may not detect the parasite.
• Treatment typically involves antibiotics such as trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole; alternative medications are available but may be costly and less accessible, as experienced by a patient allergic to first-line drugs.
• Patients are advised to stay hydrated with electrolyte solutions, rest, and seek medical care if symptoms persist beyond several days or worsen, while public health officials may contact confirmed cases to trace outbreak sources.