BURST
U.S. officials are dealing with an outbreak linked to cyclospora, a parasite that can cause bouts of explosive diarrhea for weeks or months and even require hospitalization in some cases.
The Public Health Agency of Canada “is not currently investigating any Cyclospora outbreaks in Canada,” according to spokesperson Mark Johnson.
However, “there is usually an increase in Cyclospora infections acquired in Canada linked to consuming fresh fruit and vegetables imported from other countries during the spring and summer,” said Johnson.
Here’s what to know about cyclosporiasis and the parasite that causes it.
What is cyclosporiasis and what are the symptoms?
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite called cyclospora, which affects your intestines and is not a pleasant experience.
According to Health Canada , symptoms of cyclosporiasis include watery diarrhea, bloating, gas and stomach cramps. You may also feel extra tired and experience a loss of appetite, weight loss, a mild fever or nausea.
It can take between one to two weeks before symptoms start to show up and, if left untreated, the symptoms could last a few days or even up to a few months. For most people, symptoms will stick around for six to seven weeks but even after symptoms fade and you start to feel better, symptoms can often return.
Why is cyclosporiasis in the news?
The illness is currently in the news due to a massive spike in cases being reported in the U.S. across 31 states, particularly in Michigan and Ohio, compared to the same two-week period last year.
While there are cases of cyclosporiasis every summer, they are usually linked to travel and not domestic spread as in the current situation. Historically, Canada has recorded an average of 238 cases annually between 2004 and 2019.
As of July 9, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had received 843 reports of confirmed cyclosporiasis, and another 1,500 cases that require testing to confirm. A total of 86 people have been hospitalized.
However, critics note that the federal agency’s ability to track cases accurately and in a timely manner has suffered after cyclosporiasis was cut last year from the list of food-borne pathogens being monitored by the CDC, due to a decrease in funding.
As a result, numbers of cases reported by the CDC and by state-level agencies aren’t aligned: Ohio has reported 177 cases as of July 8, Michigan has counted 2,640 as of July 9, and cases are rising in New York.
How is cyclosporiasis spread, and where is it found?
Cyclosporiasis is most commonly spread by ingesting contaminated food or water. Food can become contaminated if it is washed in contaminated or untreated water, and water can become contaminated when it comes into contact with sewage or the feces of an infected person.
According to federal health officials, while cyclospora is not common on food and in water here in Canada, it can be found on fruits and vegetables that are imported from certain countries where cyclosporiasis is common, including Peru, Cuba, India, Nepal, Mexico, Guatemala, Southeast Asia and the Dominican Republic.
Some of the imported foods that have historically been linked to cyclosporiasis cases here include basil, cilantro, raspberries, blackberries, mesclun lettuce, snow and snap peas, and packaged salad mix.
The situation in the U.S. is exacerbated because officials have not yet been able to pinpoint a source for the spread and can’t say with certainty which fruits or vegetables have been bringing the parasite into the country.
But don’t worry: cyclosporiasis “is unlikely to spread directly between people,” according to Health Canada, nor can it spread between humans and animals.
“This is because the parasite can only infect others once it leaves your body through feces,” says the agency.
“To be able to spread, the parasite needs to be outside the body for about seven to 15 days.”
However, reinfection is possible after recovery if you are exposed to cyclospora again.
Who is most at risk for cyclosporiasis and how can I avoid it?
Those most at risk include those who eat fresh foods imported from tropical and subtropical areas where the parasite is common. But that doesn’t mean you will be guaranteed infection, just that your risk is higher.
As well, your risk factor is heightened if you’re a young child, an older adult or have a weakened immune system.
Those travelling to a country where cyclosporiasis is found should avoid food that has been washed in local drinking water, ensuring you’re drinking water from a safe source, and eating properly cooked foods or fruit that you can peel yourself.
The PHAC also recommends consuming fresh produce that is grown in Canada instead of those imported from other countries during the spring and summer when an increase in cyclospora infections are usually seen.
In general, it’s a great reminder to practice safe food handling practices, cook foods thoroughly, and be mindful of food sources when they are imported.
Can I wash my fruits and vegetables to avoid cyclosporiasis?
Certainly washing your fruits and vegetables in a vinegar soak can help cut down your risk but it doesn’t guarantee all signs of cyclospora are killed. If washing or soaking fruits and vegetables, try to physically scrub or remove dirt from all crevices and surfaces of the food.
Submerge leafy greens or soft vegetables for two minutes, firmer vegetables for up to 10 minutes in a mix of one part distilled white vinegar and three parts cold water. Then rinse thoroughly.
Your best bet is still to cook your foods to at least 70 C to kill off contaminants.
What should I do if I think I am dealing with cyclosporiasis? Is there a treatment for it?
If you’re experience some of the listed symptoms and think you may have cyclosporiasis, contact your doctor to see about prescription medication. Symptoms will likely improve within two to three days after starting medication, but it may still be several weeks before things completely clear.
Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration due to diarrhea!
How does Canada monitor for cyclospora?
Canada monitors for cyclospora and cases of cyclosporiasis by monitoring trends, identifying risk factors and detecting outbreaks. This is done through a combination of relying on information from local health authorities and lab results, and provincial and territorial public health authorities, to see if there are any concerning patterns that call for closer monitoring.
Postmedia has reached out to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for comment.
Source: Health Canada