Prevention Tips as Cyclospora Cases Causing ‘Explosive Diarrhea’ Rise

As cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that can cause severe, sometimes explosive diarrhea, continue to increase across Illinois and the Chicago area, an emergency medicine expert on the medical staff of Silver Cross Hospital is urging residents to take steps to protect themselves and know when to seek medical care.

Illinois health officials have reported a higher-than-average number of cases this summer, while state and federal investigators work to identify the source of the infections.

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that spreads through contaminated food or water and can infect the small intestine. The illness is often linked to fresh produce and may not cause symptoms until days or even weeks after exposure, making it difficult to identify the source of infection.

Common symptoms include:

• Watery or explosive diarrhea
• Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
• Nausea and loss of appetite
• Bloating and excess gas
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Low-grade fever

Without treatment, symptoms can persist for weeks or even longer and may come and go over time.

“Many people assume they have a routine stomach virus, but cyclospora can be much more prolonged and debilitating,” said Dr. Aaron Tabor, Emergency Department Physician on the Medical Staff of Silver Cross Hospital. “If you are experiencing severe diarrhea that lasts more than a few days, especially if you're becoming dehydrated, it's important to seek medical evaluation. Effective treatment is available, but the infection must first be properly diagnosed.”

To help reduce the risk of infection, Dr. Tabor recommends taking several food-safety precautions:

• Wash hands with soap and water before preparing food, after using the restroom and before eating.
• Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them.
• Scrub firm produce such as cucumbers, melons and zucchini with a clean produce brush.
• When possible, cook foods rather than eating it raw, as cooking is one of the most effective ways to eliminate many foodborne organisms.
• When attending summer picnics, barbecues and gatherings, keep foods refrigerated when appropriate and avoid consuming produce that has not been washed. Fresh herbs, leafy greens, berries and other produce commonly eaten raw have been associated with cyclospora outbreaks in the past.

“Summer is peak season for fresh produce and outdoor gatherings,” Dr. Tabor added. “Taking a few extra moments to wash produce carefully and practice safe food preparation can go a long way toward protecting yourself and your family.”

When to Get Care

Seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or if you experience signs of dehydration, including dizziness, fainting, rapid heart rate, inability to keep fluids down, decreased urination or extreme weakness.

“One of the biggest concerns with prolonged diarrhea is dehydration, which can develop quickly when the body loses more fluids than it can replace,” Dr. Tabor explained. “Warning signs include excessive thirst, dry mouth, dark-colored urine, decreased urination, dizziness, lightheadedness when standing, headaches, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat and unusual fatigue or weakness.”

In children, dehydration may cause irritability, fewer wet diapers, crying without tears or a sunken appearance around the eyes. Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems may be especially vulnerable to complications.

“Don’t ignore ongoing diarrhea,” Dr. Tabor said. “If you're unable to keep fluids down, feel dizzy when standing, notice you're urinating much less than normal, or have symptoms that continue for more than a few days, it's time to contact a healthcare provider. Early evaluation and treatment can help prevent more serious complications and speed recovery.”

For more information about cyclospora and food safety recommendations, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For more information about where to seek care – Silver Cross Hospital’s main Emergency Department in New Lenox or our Emergency Care Center in Homer Glen, or one of Silver Cross Hospital’s Urgent Care Centers, visit silvercross.org