| Cyclospora Parasite - Cyclospora cayetanensis Symptoms - Frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, fever, and constant fatigue Sources - Infected food and water contaminated with human feces containing the parasite. Recent outbreaks have been linked to consumption of contaminated produce. Incubation Period - Symptoms will begin to develop about 1 week after exposure to the parasite. Duration of Illness - When untreated, the illness may last for only a few days but can last longer than a month. Some people may experience relapsing symptoms, and some may not even know that they are infected. Treatment - Treatment usually involves a 7-day course of oral antibiotics. Prevention - Thorough handwashing is important to reduce the chance of contaminating food or drinks. Food workers infected with the parasite shall not work until they have been treated successfully. For more information about Cyclospora, Click Here Return to the Food Safety home page Return to Environmental Health Home page Return to Stratford Health Dept Home page
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