By Abigail Roberts
A confirmed case of cyclosporiasis is currently being investigated, according to the Lincoln County Health Department.
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal disease caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora.
Kentucky is one of at least 17 states experiencing an increase in cases of cyclosporiasis. In collaboration with local health departments and other partners, the Kentucky Department for Public Health said it is investigating possible sources of this illness to keep Kentuckians healthy.
LCHD Director Ann Stevens said Friday there is one confirmed case of cyclosporiasis.
“There is not any clear association of the Lincoln County case to a specific facility or distributor,” Stevens said. “The investigation is ongoing. Right now that’s all the information that we have.”
Stevens said she recommends following the state protocols for fresh produce for prevention.
“Cyclosporiasis is treatable, and many people recover without needing medical treatment,” the department said on Facebook. “It is spread through food and water contaminated with Cyclospora parasites, and usually does not spread from one person to another. If you have symptoms of cyclosporiasis, such as watery diarrhea, and you are concerned about your health, please contact your doctor or other health care provider.”
The most common symptoms include diarrhea, fatigue, and abdominal cramping. It is commonly treated with a combination of antibiotics. Cyclosporiasis is not usually spread directly from person to person. Instead, people can become infected by consuming contaminated food or water.
Kentucky health officials say while no source has currently been identified for the current cases of cyclosporiasis, previous outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been linked to fresh fruits and vegetables, such as lettuce, herbs, and berries.
According to WKYT the Kentucky Department for Public Health is investigating 192 reported cases of cyclosporiasis statewide, 108 of which have been confirmed.
What you should do
Call your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of cyclosporiasis
- Contact your provider if you develop watery diarrhea, especially lasting more than a few days, along with fatigue or loss of appetite.
- You may need to specifically request testing for Cyclospora. Routine stool tests don’t always screen for this parasite.
- Symptoms usually begin about one week after becoming infected (ranging from 2 days to 2 weeks or more).
- Without treatment, symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a month or longer.
- If you have symptoms, stay well-hydrated.
Provide information to help us identify the contaminated food
- If you are sick with cyclosporiasis, local or state health officials may contact you to find out what you ate in the two weeks before you got sick.
