Georgia residents are being encouraged to stay aware of a seasonal foodborne illness as Cyclospora infections increase across the United States during the summer months.
According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis. Cases typically become more common between May and August, when fresh fruits and vegetables are consumed more frequently. Health officials note that reported infections in Georgia have increased in recent years, due in part to improved laboratory testing.
People become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Unlike many other illnesses, Cyclospora is not typically spread from one person to another because the parasite must mature in the environment before it becomes infectious.
Symptoms generally appear two to 14 days after exposure and often include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, bloating, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. In some cases, symptoms may improve before returning days later, and without treatment the illness can last several weeks or longer.
While most people recover, anyone experiencing prolonged diarrhea or other persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should contact a healthcare provider. Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics when diagnosed.
Although fresh produce is an important part of a healthy diet, health officials recommend taking simple precautions to reduce the risk of infection, including:
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating or preparing them.
- Wash hands with soap and water before handling food and after using the restroom.
- Drink water from safe, treated sources.
- Seek medical attention if diarrhea persists or becomes severe.
State health officials say there is currently no single food source identified in Georgia linked to recent cases, but they continue to encourage residents to practice good food safety habits during the peak summer season.
For more information about Cyclospora and cyclosporiasis, visit the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Cyclospora information page.
