The New “Stomach Bug”
In the author’s experience, most stomach bugs are viral lasting 24-48 hours. They normally go away on their own and can be contagious from person to person. This is not the case with Cyclosporiasis. Regardless of the cause, gastrointestinal fluid loss related to illness, it is usually best to avoid antidiarrheals and stay hydrated with water and replacing electrolytes. As always best practice to prevent infections and illnesses; wash your hands and follow good hygiene practices.
Cyclosporiasis; being referred as the “New Stomach Bug.”
Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic infection that is unlikely to be passed from person to person.
It may be contracted by contaminated food and water sources.
Typical foods are fresh fruit and vegetables.
Some examples may be berries, lettuce, bagged salad or other fresh produce.
The illness/symptoms usually present about 1 week after exposure and may last for several weeks.
The most common symptoms are:
Diarrhea, Cramping, Gas, Nausea, Tiredness and Low Appetite.
During this time, symptoms can improve at times and then worsen at times.
It may feel like waves of sickness.
Although most people will eventually recover without treatment; it is good practice to yield on the side of caution.
Should you experience 3 or more days of symptoms get evaluated with your primary care provider.
Treatment for Cyclosporiasis may include antibiotics, to reduce severity and promote quicker resolution.
It is important for people in poor health or who are immunocompromised, to seek testing and antibiotic treatment.
Safety tips to reduce contracting Cyclosporiasis include:
Proper water and food handling to prevent contamination:
Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables.
Wash all fruits and vegetables (even those labeled pre-washed) thoroughly before eating, cutting, or cooking.
Cut away any damaged or bruised areas before preparing and eating.
Washing alone cannot guarantee the parasite's removal but cooking produce to at least 158 °F (70°C) can kill the parasite.
Store cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator as soon as possible (within two hours).
For travel to areas with uncertain sanitation, avoid tap water and ice made from tap water, and avoid raw foods rinsed with tap water.
Safer choices include boiled, treated, or bottled water; well-cooked foods eaten hot; and produce that is washed in safe water and peeled by the traveler
Information digested by author from Cyclosporiasis | CDC
At any time, should anyone with gastrointestinal symptoms develop difficulty holding down food and liquids, have severe pain, uncontrolled fevers, excessive nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, signs of dehydration (thirst, dry mouth, dark yellow urine, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and muscle cramps, confusion, rapid heart rate, and fainting). They should not wait, but go for evaluation and treatment.
-David Ourso, FNP-C
*Disclaimer/Important notice.
The information provided is for general educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding medical conditions. Reading the information does not establish a provider-patient relationship.