DES MOINES — Federal health officials are warning Americans, including Iowans, to be alert for a parasitic intestinal illness that has sickened people across the country.
The illness, known as cyclosporiasis, is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. It is typically spread when someone eats food or drinks water contaminated with the parasite.
Fresh produce has frequently been connected to Cyclospora outbreaks. Past investigations have linked illnesses to leafy greens, salad mixes, herbs, berries and other fruits and vegetables commonly eaten raw.
Federal investigators are working to identify contaminated foods connected to current illnesses. In some outbreaks, several unrelated food sources may be involved rather than one nationwide product.
Cyclospora infects the intestines and most commonly causes frequent watery diarrhea. Symptoms can continue for several weeks and may temporarily disappear before returning.
Other symptoms can include:
Loss of appetite
Stomach cramps
Bloating and increased gas
Nausea
Fatigue
Weight loss
Vomiting
Body aches
Headache
Low-grade fever
Symptoms generally begin about one week after a person consumes contaminated food or water, although the time can vary.
The illness can be especially disruptive because diarrhea and fatigue may persist for weeks or even months without treatment. Some infected people may not experience symptoms.
Cyclospora is not usually passed directly from one person to another. After leaving an infected person’s body, the parasite generally must remain in the environment for days or weeks before becoming capable of infecting someone else.
People experiencing persistent or recurring diarrhea should contact a healthcare provider and mention the possibility of Cyclospora. Special laboratory testing may be required because the parasite is not always included in routine stool testing.
Cyclosporiasis can be treated with prescription medication. People with weakened immune systems may experience longer or more severe illnesses.
Iowans should thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them. Hands, utensils and food-preparation surfaces should also be cleaned carefully.
Washing produce can reduce contamination but may not completely eliminate Cyclospora. Cooking produce is more effective at killing the parasite.
Iowa has dealt with Cyclospora outbreaks in the past. A major outbreak in 2013 sickened hundreds of people in Iowa and Nebraska and was linked to contaminated salad mix.
Anyone who becomes seriously dehydrated, cannot keep liquids down, develops prolonged diarrhea or has worsening symptoms should seek medical care.