(COLDWATER) - Health officials have an update on the outbreak of Cyclosporiasis in Michigan.
The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency has been monitoring the outbreak. Heidi Hazel, the CHA Personal Health & Disease Prevention Officer says they are seeing an increase in cases in St. Joseph and Hillsdale Counties, but do not have any confirmation that they are related to this current outbreak.
Hazel says the CHA is requesting residents who receive a call or message from the agency to please return the call so that they can determine if your case is linked to the outbreak. The information requested in the phone call will be used as part of the larger investigation, so that public health officials may be able to determine the source and work to reduce community risk.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by infection from the parasite Cyclospora Cayatenensis, which is spread by food or water contaminated with feces. Outbreaks have occurred in the past as a result of eating contaminated fresh produce, especially during the summer months. Cyclosporiasis is not known to spread from person to person.
Symptoms occur two to 14 days after exposure and may include: Frequent watery diarrhea; Loss of appetite and weight; Abdominal cramps and bloating; Nausea (vomiting is less common); and Low-grade fever.
Individuals experiencing sudden onset of these symptoms are encouraged to be evaluated by their health care provider. Symptoms of cyclosporiasis can be significantly improved with antibiotic treatment. If untreated, the illness may last for a few days to a month or longer.