Health officials are now investigating 11 cases of cyclosporiasis confirmed in Shelby County.
The Shelby County Health Department (SCHD) announced Wednesday that it is working with the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) to examine causes of the cases here.
Four of the cases are determined to have contracted the illness during international travel. Six appear to have contracted the illness while traveling outside of Shelby County, the health department said. One case is still under investigation.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The condition and its root are in contaminated produce, most likely lettuce, and has been national news over few weeks. The news from the SCHD Wednesday is the first about the illness here.
“While we continue our investigation, we encourage residents to take precautions when preparing fresh fruits and vegetables and to seek medical attention if they experience prolonged or severe diarrhea,” said Dr. Bruce Randolph, Interim Health Director and Health Officer for the SCHD. “Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics, which can shorten the course of the illness.”
Symptoms generally begin one to two weeks after exposure and may include:
Watery diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Stomach cramps or bloating
Nausea
Fatigue
Low-grade fever
Without treatment, symptoms may persist for several weeks or may come and go, the health department said. Healthcare providers can diagnose the illness through specialized laboratory testing. Because Cyclospora is not included in many routine stool tests, healthcare providers may need to specifically request testing when cyclosporiasis is suspected.
The illness is not typically spread directly from person to person because the parasite must mature in the environment before it becomes infectious.
SCHD recommends residents wash their hands with soap and water before and after preparing food, rinse fresh produce under running water, refrigerate cut produce promptly, stay hydrated if ill, and contact a healthcare provider if diarrhea is prolonged or severe.
Residents should also watch the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s recall notices posted at FDA.gov. Several types of shredded and bagged iceberg lettuce products have been recalled due to potential cyclospora contamination, the health department said. Do not eat recalled produce. Discard it immediately and clean refrigerators and food preparation surfaces with soap and water.
