MORGANTOWN — Cyclosporiasis, the parasitic infection causing explosive diarrhea and other symptoms across much of the country, has made its way to Monongalia County.
According to information shared Monday by the Monongalia County Health Department, there have been two reported cases of cyclosporiasis in the county, including one resulting in hospitalization.
County Health Officer Dr. Brian Huggins said the source of the cyclosporiasis has not been found.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. People can become infected by consuming food or water with contaminated feces.
Symptoms begin about a week after exposure.
The most common symptom is frequent bouts of watery diarrhea, but can also include loss of appetite, cramping and/or increased gas, nausea, fatigue, and a low-grade fever. Vomiting is less common.
The MCHD recommends avoiding raw, unpeeled fresh produce; bagged salad mixes/kits; fresh cilantro and basil; snow peas, raspberries, and green onions.
Rinse fruits and vegetables under running water. Use a produce brush on firm produce. Cut away damaged areas and refrigerate cut produce.
Cooking vegetables to 158 degrees kills cyclosporiasis.
The CDC reported 843 cases nationwide across 31 states as of July 10, but acknowledged the numbers are likely much higher.
According to national media reports, Michigan alone was reporting more than 2,500 cases on Monday, while Ohio hovered around 360.
On July 10, the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health said it was investigating an increase in cyclosporiasis cases in the state.
The alert said there have been 47 cases in West Virginia since June 17 – more than five times the state’s annual average of nine cases.
Cyclosporiasis is typically treated with antibiotics commercially known as Bactrim, Septra, or Cotrim. People with cyclosporiasis should also drink plenty of fluids.
According to the CDC, there is no evidence of a single multistate outbreak linking all cases. Local and federal authorities are still working to identify a potential source of illness for illness clusters, however, many cases thus far appear to be part of a seasonal surge, which typically occur between May 1 and Aug. 31.
If you think you have cyclosporiasis, see a health care provider who can test you and report the illness.
