Maryland reports rising cyclosporiasis cases amid wider parasitic illness concerns

Maryland has recorded dozens of cyclosporiasis cases since May 1, adding to growing concern about a parasitic illness that has sickened people in several states during the warmer months.

Cyclosporiasis is caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite that can contaminate food or water. In the United States, outbreaks have often been linked to fresh produce, including items eaten raw. Health officials typically investigate whether cases share a common food source, though identifying one can be difficult because symptoms may appear days after exposure and people may have eaten many foods during that period.

The increase in Maryland comes as other states report elevated case counts and public health agencies track possible multistate clusters. Michigan has reported a large outbreak of the diarrhea-causing parasite, while illnesses also have been reported in Virginia and Maryland, according to regional news reports. Federal and state officials have not always been able to connect every case to a single source, and investigations can change as more interviews and laboratory findings become available.

What symptoms to watch for

Cyclosporiasis most commonly causes watery diarrhea that can last for days or weeks if untreated. Other symptoms may include stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, low-grade fever and body aches. Symptoms can come and go, making the illness easy to mistake for other stomach bugs.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says people usually become sick about a week after consuming contaminated food or water, though the timing can vary. The infection is not typically spread directly from one person to another because the parasite needs time outside the body to become infectious.

People who have prolonged diarrhea, signs of dehydration or symptoms that improve and then return should contact a health care provider. Diagnosis generally requires a stool test specifically ordered for Cyclospora, because routine tests may not detect it. The illness is treatable, most commonly with a prescription antibiotic combination, though patients should follow medical advice, especially if they have medication allergies or underlying conditions.

How to reduce risk

Health officials advise consumers to wash hands before handling food, rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water, and clean cutting boards, utensils and countertops after preparing produce. Washing may reduce risk but may not remove all parasites, especially from delicate or hard-to-clean items such as leafy greens, herbs or berries.

Residents should refrigerate cut produce, separate raw meat and seafood from ready-to-eat foods, and discard items that appear spoiled. People who are ill should avoid preparing food for others when possible, particularly for older adults, young children, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems.

Public health agencies are expected to continue monitoring cyclosporiasis reports through the summer, when cases are more commonly detected. Anyone contacted by a health department for an interview is encouraged to provide detailed information about recent meals and grocery purchases, as those reports can help investigators identify patterns and prevent additional illnesses.