Maryland reports 69 cyclosporiasis cases as infections more than double in a week

The Maryland Department of Health said 69 cases of cyclosporiasis have been confirmed in the state, 65 of which were reported between May 1 and July 14, more than double the number recorded the week before. The cases include both domestically acquired infections and those linked to international travel, and investigators have not yet identified a common source.

Symptoms typically appear one to 14 days after exposure and can include watery diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, gas, bloating, and low-grade fever. Dr. Greg Schrank, an infectious-diseases physician at the University of Maryland Medical Center, warned that dehydration is a major risk, especially during hot weather.

"What's been quite startling with the current outbreak is the sheer number of cases in a very short period of time," Schrank told WBAL-TV 11 News.

He advised people to avoid pre-packaged salads, spinach, or lettuce, to peel fruits and vegetables when possible, and to cook produce to reduce the risk of infection. Schrank added that the illness is generally not life-threatening but can be uncomfortable, and that early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment can shorten the duration of symptoms.

Local farmers suggested that produce from nearby farms may carry a lower risk of contamination because it involves fewer handling steps. Cynthia Yingling of Glenville Hollow Farms said customers prefer her produce because she does not use wash water, and Gregory Horner of Deep Run Farm noted that their products go directly from field to consumer, reducing potential contamination points.