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Officials Investigating Cyclospora Cases

By Florida Department of Health, Office of Communications

July 26, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2013

Contact: Communications Office
(850) 245-4111

DOH OFFICIALS INVESTIGATING CYCLOSPORA CASES

TALLAHASSEE—Florida Department of Health (DOH) officials are investigating 23 cases of Cyclospora infection in the state. Caused by a single-celled parasite that infects the small intestine, Cyclospora usually causes diarrhea with frequent bowel movements. At this time, there have been no patients hospitalized in Florida.

Other common symptoms of Cyclospora infection include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps/pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea and fatigue. Vomiting, body aches, headache, fever and other flu-like symptoms may be noted.

Cyclospora is most commonly spread by ingesting water or uncooked food that was contaminated with human feces. Cyclospora infections have been previously linked to various types of fresh vegetables and berries. Cyclospora is not passed directly from one person to another.

“Epidemiologists across Florida, in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are working to identify the source of these Cyclospora cases,” said Interim State Epidemiologist Dr. Carina Blackmore. “Staff are re-interviewing those affected to carefully examine food items and the ingredients those patients were exposed to.”

Onset dates of Cyclospora cases in Florida range from the beginning of June to mid-July. Currently, there are no links to common restaurants found among the 23 cases, as in other states. Additionally, no common food items or events, like a social gathering, have been identified among those affected.

For more information on Cyclospora, visit www.floridahealth.gov or http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/cyclosporiasis/.

DOH protects, promotes and improves the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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