17957 Cyclosporiasis

Overview

Cyclosporiasis is an infection of the intestines caused by a tiny parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. When you swallow this parasite, usually through contaminated food or water, it can cause diarrhea and stomach discomfort. With proper care, most people recover fully.

Cyclosporiasis is not very common in most parts of the world. It happens more often in tropical and subtropical regions, and outbreaks can occur when contaminated produce or water is shared. Travelers to affected areas may have a higher chance of getting it.

Anyone can get cyclosporiasis, but people with weakened immune systems, older adults, and young children may become more ill. People who travel to areas with poor water treatment or eat imported fresh produce may also be at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Watery diarrhea that lasts for weeks or comes and goes
• Frequent bowel movements and urgent need to go
• Stomach cramps and bloating
• Nausea and loss of appetite
• Weight loss and fatigue

Symptoms in children

• Watery diarrhea
• Vomiting and nausea
• Signs of dehydration, such as dry lips, fewer wet nappies, or unusual drowsiness

Symptoms in older adults

• More severe diarrhea
• Higher risk of dehydration
• Feeling weak, dizzy, or confused

Causes

Main causes

• Swallowing water contaminated with the Cyclospora parasite
• Eating raw fruits or vegetables (especially imported berries, herbs, or greens) washed with or grown in contaminated water
• Touching your mouth after handling contaminated food or water

Risk factors

• Travel to regions where the parasite is common
• Eating raw produce that may have been washed in unsafe water
• Having a weakened immune system (for example, due to certain medical conditions or treatments)
• Living in or visiting areas with poor sanitation or water treatment

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have bloody diarrhea
• If you cannot keep fluids down and feel very thirsty or dizzy
• If you have severe stomach pain or a high fever
• If you are older, pregnant, or have a weakened immune system and develop diarrhea

Book a routine appointment if:

• If watery diarrhea lasts more than a few days
• If you are losing weight or feeling very tired
• If your child has diarrhea and signs of dehydration

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, travel history, and what you have eaten. To confirm cyclosporiasis, they will usually ask for one or more stool (poo) samples to send to a laboratory.

Tests that may be done

• Stool sample test to look for the parasite under a microscope
• Sometimes special laboratory tests, such as PCR, to detect the parasite's genetic material

What to expect at your appointment

You will receive a small container and instructions on how to collect a stool sample at home or at the clinic. The sample is sent to a lab, and results may take a few days. Your doctor will explain the result and, if needed, recommend treatment. You may need more than one sample because the parasite can be hard to find.

Treatment

Treating cyclosporiasis usually involves a course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, especially for people with prolonged symptoms or higher risk. Rest and drinking plenty of fluids are essential to prevent dehydration.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of clean water or oral rehydration solution, available from pharmacies
• Rest as much as possible to let your body recover
• Eat small, bland meals if you feel up to it, and avoid dairy, fatty foods, and caffeine
• Wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet and before preparing food

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic taken by mouth to clear the parasite from your system. The course is usually short, but you must take it exactly as prescribed and finish all the medicine, even if you feel better. Never share antibiotics or use leftover medicine.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat cyclosporiasis. This is an infection, not a surgical condition.

Living with this condition

While you recover, focus on resting and staying hydrated. You may need to take time off work or school if symptoms are severe. Keep following your doctor's advice and take any prescribed treatment fully.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid preparing food for other people until your diarrhea has stopped
• Use separate towels and wash your hands often to avoid spreading germs
• Clean bathroom surfaces and toilet handles regularly

Diet and exercise

Aim to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broths, and diluted juice. Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast, rice, bananas, and boiled potatoes once your appetite returns. Avoid heavy exercise until you feel stronger, but gentle movement like short walks can help you regain energy.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with persistent diarrhea and fatigue can feel upsetting and frustrating. It is normal to feel anxious or low while you recover. Give yourself time, and talk to your doctor or a trusted person about how you are feeling.

Prevention

Yes, you can reduce your risk by practicing good food and water safety. Wash fresh fruits and vegetables under running water, especially produce that may have been imported. Avoid drinking untreated water from streams, lakes, or wells. In areas with uncertain water quality, drink bottled water or water that has been boiled.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine available for cyclosporiasis.

Screening programmes

Screening is not routinely offered for the general public. If you have symptoms or specific risk factors, your doctor may recommend a stool test.

Complications

If left untreated

• Severe dehydration from prolonged diarrhea
• Weight loss and poor absorption of nutrients
• Persistent symptoms lasting weeks or months
• More serious illness in people with weakened immune systems

Long-term outlook

The outlook for most people with cyclosporiasis is very good. With proper treatment, symptoms usually improve within a week or so, and most people make a complete recovery. Even without treatment, many people recover on their own, but seeing a doctor helps avoid complications and speeds up healing.

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