Cyclospora outbreak hits 24 cases in Florida

As the cyclospora outbreak reached 372 cases in 16 states, Florida's Department of Health has confirmed the 24th case in the Sunshine State. One of those two dozen patients has been hospitalized with the intestinal infection.

The state is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other federal agencies to investigate cases of cyclospora nationwide in an effort to identify the infection's source.

Caused by a single-celled parasite that attacks the small intestine, cyclospora usually causes diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea and fatigue. Vomiting, body aches, headache, fever and other flu-like symptoms may also occur, health officials said.

Cyclospora cannot be passed directly from one person to another. It is most commonly spread by ingesting water or uncooked food contaminated with human feces. Cyclospora infections are usually linked to herbs, vegetables and berries.

The outbreak began in Florida in early June. Currently, 14 women and 10 men have been reported to have the infection. Their average age is 57.5 years, with a range of 22 to 78 years of age.

Unlike in other states, the 24 cases in Florida share no common links to restaurants or foods.

Iowa, where the outbreak originated, now has 143 cases. The second-highest number of cases is in Texas, which has reported 101 cases, according to the CDC. Nationwide at least 21 residents have been hospitalized as a result of the infection.

Because symptoms can last several weeks if left untreated, see your health provider if you experience symptoms.

The last significant cyclospora outbreak in Florida was 8 years ago, and was linked to contaminated basil, health officials said.

mjameson@tribune.com or 407-420-5158

Source: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/os-cyclospora-outbreak-florida-20130730,0,1123409.story?track=rss

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