Monroe County health officials investigate cyclosporiasis cluster

Health officials in Monroe County, Michigan, are investigating a cluster of cyclosporiasis cases that began showing symptoms within the past week. The county health department said on June 29 it is working to identify a potential common source of exposure. Cyclosporiasis is a diarrheal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which is typically found in developing countries and can be transmitted through food or water contaminated with feces. Recent U.S. outbreaks have been linked to contaminated fresh produce, especially during the summer, and the disease is not known to spread from person to person. Symptoms appear two to 14 days after exposure and may include frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, and low-grade fever. Without treatment, the illness can last from several days to over a month, with symptoms sometimes recurring. The health department advises anyone experiencing these symptoms to see a healthcare provider for stool testing and appropriate treatment. Preventive measures include avoiding food or water that may be fecally contaminated, thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables under running water, scrubbing firm produce with a clean brush, removing damaged or bruised areas, and refrigerating cut, peeled, or cooked produce within two hours.