Intestinal Parasite Plagues MA, Baffles Health Officials

Massachusetts health officials are warning residents after a massive spike in cyclosporiasis cases. Cyclospora is a foodborne illness that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, primarily diarrhea, that can be severe.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health released a warning Monday, saying there have more than 100 reports of cyclosporiasis since May 1. Over the past three years, there have only been between 18-33 cases reported per year, DPH said.

The DPH said the cause of the outbreak is still a mystery. The illness is not spread person-to-person. Most of the cases have been outside Greater Boston; other states have also reported spikes in cyclosporiasis cases.

While no food item has been connected to the outbreak, the DPH said historically it has been linked to imported fresh produce including Guatemalan raspberries and snow peas (2000 and 2004); Thai basil (2001); Mexican bagged salad mix (2013); and prepackaged commercial fresh vegetable trays (2018).

The disease is usually tied to people who travel to warmer countries, but the DPH said only a small number of cases in Massachusetts have been connected to people traveling internationally.

"Individuals usually become symptomatic approximately one week after eating contaminated food," said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel. "Symptoms typically include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal cramping, nausea, and prolonged fatigue."

Most infections will run their course on their own, but people should still seek medical care, the DPH said.

DPH reminds people to always practice safe fruit and vegetable handling practices.