The Maryland Department of Health has confirmed 69 cases of cyclosporiasis this year, a significant surge that has more than doubled the 32 cases reported by the department just one week ago. The jump in illnesses is part of a broader, ongoing nationwide outbreak that has affected more than 30 states. According to state health officials, 65 of the 69 confirmed Maryland cases occurred between May 1 and July 14. While local health departments continue to conduct investigations, officials have not yet identified a common link or specific source for the infections reported within the state.
Understanding the Parasitic Illness
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the parasite *Cyclospora*. It is contracted by ingesting food or water contaminated with the parasite, often through irrigation water tainted by feces. The illness does not spread from person to person. Dr. Greg Schrank, an infectious diseases physician at the University of Maryland Medical Center, noted that the current outbreak is particularly startling due to the sheer number of cases occurring in a very short period. “We see typically, in Maryland, a few cases each year,” Schrank said. Symptoms generally appear one to 14 days after exposure, typically within a week. The most common symptom is watery, sometimes explosive, diarrhea. Unlike some other stomach viruses, cyclosporiasis is known for a prolonged course, with symptoms potentially lasting for weeks and following a relapsing pattern.
Nationwide Impact and Investigation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating the multistate surge. As of mid-July, the CDC had received reports of 1,645 confirmed cases across 34 states, though federal authorities believe the actual number of infections is likely higher due to reporting lags and the fact that many individuals recover without seeking medical care. Nationwide, there have been 141 hospitalizations reported, but no deaths. While the source remains under investigation, previous U.S. outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce such as raspberries, basil, cilantro, snow peas, and lettuce. The difficulty in tracing the source is compounded by the incubation period, as patients often struggle to recall everything they consumed in the two weeks prior to the onset of symptoms.
Prevention and Medical Guidance
Health experts emphasize that while the illness is generally not life-threatening, the primary risk is dehydration, especially during the current extreme summer heat. To reduce the risk of infection, health officials recommend the following precautions: * Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before handling or eating food. * Handle Produce Safely: Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Some experts suggest using a produce wash or a solution of soap and water. Peeling the outer layers of produce and cooking items to 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius) can also eliminate the parasite. * Avoid Untreated Water: Do not drink water from lakes, streams, or other untreated sources. * Be Selective: Some health experts suggest avoiding high-risk items like prepackaged salads, spinach, or lettuce during the outbreak.
When to Seek Treatment
If diarrhea lasts more than one or two days, individuals are encouraged to contact a healthcare provider for testing. A diagnosis is typically confirmed through a stool test. Dr. Ashanti Woods of Mercy Medical Center noted that if a patient is diagnosed with cyclosporiasis, a specific antibiotic—trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, commonly known as Bactrim—can be prescribed to shorten the duration and lessen the severity of the illness.
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