By Nathaniel Ratnasamy, MD, Infectious Disease Physician and Gina Bailey, BSN, RN, Infection Preventionist, Blanchard Valley Health System

Cases of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, are increasing nationwide. 31 states have been impacted so far, but Michigan and Ohio have been hit the hardest, with more than 3,000 reported cases between the two. While the exact source of the outbreak has not been identified, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent yourself from becoming infected. 

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection that can cause severe, explosive diarrhea, cramping, bloating, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and a low-grade fever. The infection is caused by consuming contaminated foods or water containing the Cyclospora parasite. Symptoms typically begin about a week after exposure but can develop anywhere from 2 to 14 days later.