Cyclospora cases reported in Kentucky as nationwide outbreak continues

Kentucky’s Norton Healthcare has identified ten adult patients with Cyclospora infection over the past two weeks, none of whom required hospitalization. The parasite, which causes severe watery diarrhea, is part of a broader increase in cases reported in at least 28 states, including large outbreaks in Michigan, Illinois and New York.

Cyclospora is commonly found in soil and on raw fruits and vegetables such as cilantro, basil, leafy greens, berries and other produce with uneven surfaces. The organism is transmitted when contaminated food is consumed; there is no evidence of person-to-person spread.

Health officials advise washing hands before and after handling raw produce and cleaning fruits and vegetables thoroughly with running water and manual scrubbing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends refrigerating cut, peeled or cooked produce within two hours.

Symptoms can last from a few days up to two weeks. Individuals who are very young, elderly, or have underlying medical conditions should seek medical evaluation, especially if they experience fever, persistent nausea, vomiting or are unable to maintain hydration. Diagnosis is made by laboratory testing of stool samples, and treatment may involve antibiotics for severe or prolonged cases.

"If your diarrhea is mild, short-lasting and not accompanied by fever or dehydration, supportive care with rest and fluids is usually sufficient," a local physician explained.

The source of the current surge remains unidentified, and public health agencies continue to monitor the situation.