Monroe County Health Department Investigates Rising Cyclosporiasis Cases

Monroe County health officials announced on Monday that they are investigating an increase in cyclosporiasis cases among local residents. The department is working to identify a common source of exposure that may be driving the rise in infections.

Cyclosporiasis is a diarrheal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which is typically found in developing regions and spreads through food or water contaminated with feces. Outbreaks in the United States have previously been linked to contaminated fresh produce, especially during warm weather, but the disease does not spread directly from person to person.

Symptoms usually appear two days to two weeks after exposure and can include frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, and low-grade fever. Without treatment, the illness may last from several days to over a month, and symptoms can recur.

"If anyone in Monroe County is experiencing symptoms of Cyclospora infection, please see a doctor for testing and treatment," the health department advised.

The department also issued prevention recommendations, such as avoiding food or water that may be contaminated with feces, thoroughly washing all fruits and vegetables under running water, scrubbing firm produce with a clean brush, removing damaged or bruised sections, and refrigerating cut, peeled, or cooked produce within two hours.

Residents are encouraged to follow these guidelines and seek medical attention if they suspect infection.