At least 476 people in 29 states have parasitic infections from food contaminated with Cyclospora, according to the latest report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Some of the infections have been linked to cilantro imported from Mexico. And some have been linked food served at restaurants.
Symptoms of a Cyclospora infection, called cyclosporiasis, can last up to two months and include explosive diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, body aches, low-grade fever, and other flu-like symptoms. These symptoms can also last more than 60 days.
About 60 percent of the illnesses ave occurred since May 1. Texas has been hardest hit with at least 243 cases. Some of them were linked to food served at restaurants. Wisconsin and Georgia have also reported illnesses associated with restaurant food. However, health officials have not released the names of any of those establishments.
Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of an infection, should see a doctor. Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics.
