Cyclospora Outbreaks Spotlight the Hard Work of Tracing Foodborne Parasites
Rising cyclosporiasis cases across several states prompt investigators to trace sources of Cyclospora cayetanensis, a parasite that resists easy genetic tracing and relies on epidemiologic detective work. Diagnosis often requires a special stool stain because Cyclospora isn’t on standard testing panels. Infections cause weeks of watery diarrhea and are treated with a 7–10 day course of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Preventive guidance emphasizes thorough produce washing and following FDA handling tips to reduce contamination.