Two cases of cyclosporiasis reported in New Hampshire as CDC tracks nationwide outbreak
The CDC says 843 cyclosporiasis cases have been confirmed across 31 states, including two recent infections in New Hampshire, where the disease has historically affected two to nine people annually.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded 843 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal infection, in 31 U.S. states. New Hampshire reported two cases this week, bringing the state's five-year annual total to between two and nine infections, according to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, typically contracted through consumption of unwashed produce. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, fatigue, dehydration, nausea and vomiting, and the illness is treated with a specific antibiotic. Without treatment, symptoms may persist longer.
Medical Director Dr. Dilip Yarabothu of Southern New Hampshire Health Immediate Care noted that awareness of the disease appears higher this year. > "If you're having several days of diarrhea, abdominal cramping and dehydration, it is reasonable to seek medical attention before it lasts weeks," he said.
Testing for Cyclospora can be challenging because the parasite does not appear on standard parasite screens and may be shed intermittently. Dr. Yarabothu explained that patients might need to provide stool samples on multiple days to confirm infection.
Health officials advise anyone experiencing prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms to consult a healthcare provider promptly.