Which of the following foods was responsible for a large outbreak of Cyclospora in 2013?
Which of the following foods was responsible for a large outbreak of Cyclospora in 2013?
Cilantro was the vehicle of infection in the four clusters investigated; the temporal association of these clusters with the large overall increase in cyclosporiasis cases in Texas suggests cilantro was the vehicle of infection for many other cases.
What are the long term effects of Cyclospora?
Cyclospora has been associated with a variety of chronic complications such as malabsorption, reactive arthritis, cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), and, possibly, Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
What are the symptoms of Cyclospora?
Cyclospora infects the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes watery diarrhea, with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements. Other common symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps/pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue.
Can Cyclospora be washed off?
Although it’s unknown exactly how food and water become infected with Cyclospora, people should be aware that rinsing or washing food is not likely to remove it.
Is Cyclospora contagious?
Cyclospora is spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Infection spreading directly from one person to another is unlikely. Outbreaks in the United States have been linked to various types of imported fresh produce, such as cilantro, salad mix, basil, snow peas, and raspberries.
How serious is Cyclospora?
If a person ill from cyclosporiasis is not treated, symptoms can persist for several weeks to a month or more. Some symptoms, such as diarrhea, can return; and some symptoms, such as fatigue, may continue after the gastrointestinal symptoms have gone away. The infection usually is not life threatening.
What food is Cyclospora found in?
Cyclospora is found in many parts of the world but is most common in tropical and subtropical regions. Foodborne outbreaks have been linked to various types of fresh produce, including raspberries, basil, cilantro, snow peas, and mesclun and romaine lettuce.
How do you get rid of Cyclospora?
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX), sold under the trade names Bactrim*, Septra*, and Cotrim*, is the usual therapy for Cyclospora infection. No highly effective alternative antibiotic regimen has been identified yet for patients who do not respond to the standard treatment or have a sulfa allergy.
Can Cyclospora be killed by cooking?
Washing fruits and vegetables with water and a brush may help get rid of cyclospora. Cooking will kill the cyclospora germs. Fruits and vegetables that are peeled are safer to eat.