Parasite Infection Cases Turn Up In Pittsburgh Area

PITTSBURGH, PA — Cases of the parasite that has caused severe diarrhea for an estimated thousands of people nationwide are now occurring in the Pittsburgh area.

The Allegheny County Health Department has identified 11 cases of cyclosporiasis as of Tuesday. The health department is working closely with state and federal partners to investigate if there is a link between the cases.

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Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite called cyclospora. People get infected with cyclospora by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite. It is not spread directly from person to person.

Common cyclosporiasis symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramping and bloating
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss

Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure but can range from two days to two weeks. Anyone who believes they might have cyclosporiasis should contact their health care provider immediately.

Identifying cyclospora requires special lab tests. There is a specific antibiotic treatment that is prescribed for cyclosporiasis. This treatment should only be taken by prescription and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Key prevention steps for cyclospora include:

• Wash: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not kill or effectively remove the parasite Cyclospora. Wash hands with soap and warm water before and after handling or preparing fruits and vegetables. Wash and sanitize cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and countertops between preparation of fruits and vegetables.

• Prepare: Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking. Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush. Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating.

• Store: Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible, or within 2 hours.

• Cook: Cook your food when you can. Heating food to 158°F or higher kills Cyclospora.

Local health care providers should report cases of cyclosporiasis to the Allegheny County Health Department.