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Cyclospora cayetanensis is a parasite commonly found in tropical regions and can be contracted through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and young children are more susceptible. Treatment with antibiotics is available, and prevention measures include hand washing and sterilizing food and water.
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a widespread infectious parasite. It is most commonly found in tropical regions of South America, Africa and Asia, although it appears frequently in other regions on imported food products. The parasite thrives in human feces, and infection is usually due to eating unwashed foods or accidentally drinking contaminated water. People who get Cyclospora cayetanensis infections typically experience a range of digestive symptoms including violent diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. The disease can last for two months or more without treatment, although antibiotics are available in most regions and can relieve symptoms in as little as a week.
People who live in or travel to highly populated tropical communities are at the highest risk of infection with Cyclospora cayetanensis. Rates are highest in crowded regions with poor sanitation and little access to medical care or education. Young children develop serious infections more often than adults because their immune systems are not mature enough to fight off the parasite. While Cyclospora cayetanensis is not native to colder climates in the United States or Europe, outbreaks can still occur when the parasite is transported in cargo, food products, or returning travelers.
The unicellular spores of Cyclospora cayetanensis begin their life cycle in human waste. They enter human hosts when contaminated dirt, water, or food is consumed. The spores attach themselves to the walls of the digestive tract and begin to reproduce prolifically. Within a week of being infected, a person may experience several episodes of watery or bloody diarrhea a day. Nausea, vomiting, severe stomach cramps, and fatigue are common, and flu-like symptoms of joint pain, fever, and headache can develop if you are dehydrated.
The parasites can thrive in a host’s digestive tract for up to nine weeks, during which time some spores are excreted in the feces to seek out new hosts. When a doctor or hospital is available, treatment should be sought as soon as possible to avoid complications and to help prevent an outbreak. A doctor can confirm the presence of Cyclospora cayetanensis in the body by analyzing blood and stool samples.
Treatment usually consists of a one to two week course of an antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Drinking plenty of fluids and resting are important to prevent the complications of dehydration. Patients with severe symptoms may be admitted to the hospital to receive intravenous fluids and medications. In the hospital or doctor’s office, healthcare professionals can also provide helpful tips to prevent future infections, such as washing hands regularly, sterilizing fruits and vegetables, and only drinking bottled water in risk regions.
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