Context: The United States is witnessing a multi-state outbreak of Cyclospora infections, with contaminated leafy greens and fresh produce suspected as the primary source.
Explanation
- Cyclospora cayetanensis is a protozoan parasite that causes Cyclosporiasis, a food- and water-borne intestinal disease.
- Infection occurs through ingestion of sporulated oocysts contaminating fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, or water; person-to-person transmission does not occur because oocysts require days to weeks outside the body to become infective.
- Symptoms include prolonged watery diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss; incubation period is usually about one week.
- Diagnosis is by stool examination using specialized molecular or fluorescence-based techniques; treatment is commonly Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX).
- The outbreak has highlighted the parasite’s resistance to routine disinfection, diagnostic challenges, and the need for stronger food safety measures across the supply chain
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