UPPER SANDUSKY, Ohio — Wyandot County Public Health has received reports of an increase in diarrheal illness in Wyandot County in the past week. Some of these cases of illness have been associated with cyclospora cayetanensis.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite known to cause the intestinal illness Cyclosporiasis. It is spread when people consume food or beverages contaminated by feces containing cyclospora. Cyclosporiasis is not known to spread person-to-person.
The source of cyclospora is currently unknown and under investigation. Wyandot County Public Health nurses and environmental health specialists are working closely with individuals who test positive for cyclospora to complete food and drink diaries for the 14 days prior to symptom onset to determine if these cases may be linked to a common source.
Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis typically appear within 2 days to 2 weeks of ingestion of cyclospora and often include abrupt onset of watery diarrhea with frequent, sometimes explosive bowel movements; loss of appetite; weight loss; cramping; bloating; increased gas; nausea; fatigue; and sometimes vomiting, body aches, headache and low-grade fever. Some symptoms such as diarrhea may go away and then return. Asymptomatic cases have been observed in some outbreaks.
Those experiencing symptoms of cyclosporiasis should follow up with a healthcare provider. Cyclosporiasis may be treated with antibiotics. Several diarrheal illnesses are common during summer months with similar symptoms that require different treatments. Healthcare provider diagnoses ensure the right steps are taken to feel better as soon as possible.
Heading into the Independence Day and America 250 weekend, it is important to do the following:
- Stay Hydrated: When sick with a diarrheal illness, replace lost fluids and electrolytes by increasing water intake and drinking broths, sports drinks, or oral rehydration solutions (e.g. Pedialyte). Signs of dehydration include little or no urination, very dark colored urine, being very thirsty, having a dry mouth or throat, feeling dizzy or lightheaded and crying without tears. Dehydration can happen quickly in young children. Older adults, those with kidney disease or other health conditions and those who are considered immunocompromised should follow up with a provider for best practices.
- Prevent spread: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds at key times including after using the toilet. Follow basic food safety practices including washing hands and fresh produce, and sanitizing surfaces and utensils. Stay home when sick with diarrhea and follow up with a healthcare provider before returning to normal activities — especially when working in the food service industry. During diarrheal illness and in the two weeks following, a person should not prepare foods for others or swim or soak in water shared with other people such as public pools and splash pads.
Wyandot County Public Health is continuing to monitor reports of illness and will share additional information as it becomes available and relevant.
