Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite, most commonly fresh produce such as berries, basil, cilantro, lettuce, or other vegetables.
What to know:
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Symptoms typically begin about 1 week after exposure and can last for several weeks or even months if untreated.
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Without treatment, diarrhea and other symptoms may improve and then return repeatedly over weeks or even months.
- Symptoms may include prolonged watery diahrrea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, bloating, fatigue, and low grade fever.
- Diagnosis is made by identifying the parasite in stool samples through specialized laboratory testing.