What is Cyclosporiasis and How Can You Protect Yourself?

An outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness, is grabbing headlines across the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported more than 3,000 cases in 31 states, including New Jersey. The condition is caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora. When it infects the gastrointestinal tract, it can cause bloating, cramping, decreased appetite and diarrhea, which can last for weeks. 

While it’s unusual to see this many cases, Swapnil Patel, M.D., Vice Chair, Department of Medicine at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, says cyclosporiasis is more common in the summer months. 

“The parasite thrives in warm, humid conditions, which is why infections in the U.S. naturally spike during the summer months between May and August. It is more common in regions that import or widely distribute fresh, raw produce during these peak warmer months,” he says. 

Learn more about cyclosporiasis and how to protect yourself and your family. 

How Do You Get Cyclosporiasis?

The most common way to contract cyclosporiasis is by eating food contaminated with the parasite. Fresh produce can become infected through contaminated water used to irrigate or wash it. You can also contract cyclosporiasis by drinking untreated water or swallowing water at pools or lakes that have been contaminated. The parasite cannot be spread from person to person.

How is Cyclosporiasis Diagnosed?

Cyclosporosis is diagnosed through a stool sample. Your doctor will send the sample out for a specialized test that detects the parasite. According to Dr. Patel, there is no way to culture the sample and a standard stool and parasite test might miss the parasite. He also says that in many cases, multiple samples taken on different days are necessary to get an accurate diagnosis. 

How is Cyclosporosis Treated?

Fortunately, cyclosporosis is easily treated with a 7-10 day course of oral antibiotics. Most people see improvement in their symptoms within 2-3 days, but for some, especially those with compromised immune systems, recovery may take longer. 

In addition to antibiotics, it’s important to get plenty of water, rest and eat small, bland meals as tolerated. You should avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can worsen symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to control your symptoms.

How Long is the Recovery for Cyclosporosis?

Most people notice an improvement in their symptoms within two to three days of starting an antibiotic. However, Dr. Patel says it’s important to complete the antibiotic course to fully clear the infection and prevent relapse. Without treatment, symptoms could last from a few days to a month, which could put you at risk for dehydration.

Are There People At Higher Risk for Complications of Cyclosporosis?

For most people, cyclosporiasis is just an extreme stomach virus; however, Dr. Patel warns that it can pose a risk for some. 

“Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or who have advanced HIV, face a much higher risk of severe, long-lasting illness. Older adults and young children are also more vulnerable to dangerous complications like severe dehydration,” he says. 

What Can You Do To Prevent Cyclosporosis?

Fortunately, Alex Lazo-Vasquez, M.D., infectious disease specialist at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, says there are ways to prevent cyclosporosis. 

“Proper hand hygiene is the number one way to reduce the risk of infection. Hand sanitizers may not be effective, as the parasite can be resistant. You should also avoid drinking water from lakes, ponds and other high-risk natural sources. Wash all fruits and vegetables, and consume only pasteurized dairy products,” he says. 

Next Steps & Resources

• Meet our sources: Swapnil Patel, M.D. and Alex Lazo-Vasquez, M.D.
• Make an appointment online with a doctor near you, or call 800-822-8905.
• Find an internal specialist near you.