11 Cases of Cyclosporiasis Identified in Allegheny County

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite called cyclospora. People get infected with cyclospora by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite. It is not spread directly from person to person. 

Common cyclosporiasis symptoms include: 

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramping and bloating 
• Nausea 
• Fatigue 
• Loss of appetite 
• Weight loss 

Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure but can range from two days to two weeks. 

Anyone who believes they may have cyclosporiasis should contact their healthcare provider. Identifying cyclospora requires special lab tests. There is a specific antibiotic treatment that is prescribed for cyclosporiasis. This treatment should only be taken by prescription and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.  

Key prevention steps for cyclospora include: 

• Wash: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not kill or effectively remove the parasite Cyclospora. Wash hands with soap and warm water before and after handling or preparing fruits and vegetables. Wash and sanitize cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and countertops between preparation of fruits and vegetables. 

• Prepare: Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking. Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush. Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating. 

• Store: Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible, or within 2 hours. 

• Cook: Cook your food when you can. Heating food to 158°F or higher kills Cyclospora. 

Local health care providers should report cases of cyclosporiasis to the Allegheny County Health Department. 

Additional information about cyclosporiasis can be found on the CDC website: CDC.gov/Cyclosporiasis. 

###