What is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a one-cell parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis. The parasite multiplies in the intestine and produces oocysts which are passed from the body in the stool (bowel movement).

Who gets Cyclosporiasis?

Anyone can get Cyclosporiasis. In the past, Cyclospora infection was usually found in people who lived in, or traveled to, developing countries. However, people can be infected worldwide, including in the United States.

How is Cyclosporiasis spread?

A person becomes infected with Cyclospora cayetanensis by eating or drinking something that was contaminated with infected stool.

What are the symptoms of Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclospora infects the small intestine and usually causes watery diarrhea, with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements. Other symptoms can include loss of appetite, substantial weight loss, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, low-grade fever, and fatigue. Some people who are infected with Cyclospora do not have any symptoms.

How soon do symptoms occur?

Symptoms usually appear within 1 week after exposure.

How is Cyclosporiasis diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask you to submit stool specimens to see if you are infected. Because testing for Cyclospora infection can be difficult, you may be asked to submit several stool specimens over several days. Identification of this parasite in stool requires special laboratory tests that are not routinely done. Therefore, your doctor should specifically request testing for Cyclospora. Your doctor may have your stool checked for other organisms that can cause similar symptoms.

What is the treatment for Cyclosporiasis?

A specific antibiotic can be prescribed by your doctor to treat Cyclosporiasis. There is no over-the-counter medication that will cure this infection.

How long is an infected person infectious to others?

Because Cyclospora needs time (days or weeks) after being passed in the stool to become infectious, it is unlikely that Cyclospora is passed directly from one person to another. It is unknown whether animals can be infected and pass infection to people.

Should an infected person be excluded from work or school?

Because it is unlikely that Cyclospora is passed directly from one person to another, it is not necessary to exclude an infected person from work or school.

How can Cyclosporiasis be prevented?

• Avoid water or food that may be contaminated with stool.
• Wash and/or peel all raw vegetables and fruits before eating.
• When traveling in countries where the water supply may be unsafe, avoid drinking unboiled tap water and avoid uncooked foods washed with unboiled tap water.

Surveillance Case Definition