Denton County Public Health has confirmed two laboratory reports of cyclosporiasis among its residents this season. The agency verified the infections but stated that the specific source of the cases remains unknown.
The Center for Disease Control is currently investigating a wider outbreak linked to the parasite. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora. According to the CDC, the illness typically spreads when individuals consume food or water contaminated with feces. The agency notes that direct person-to-person transmission is unlikely because the parasite requires approximately one to two weeks outside the body to become infectious after passing in a bowel movement.
Symptoms of the infection include watery diarrhea, which can be frequent and severe, along with loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. The CDC warns that without treatment, symptoms may persist for more than a month or disappear and then return later.
The parasite is commonly found in tropical or subtropical regions globally but has appeared in the United States through fresh produce such as basil, cilantro, raspberries, and snow peas. Denton County Public Health epidemiologists presented information on the disease during an April Communicable Disease Response Team meeting to help healthcare partners prepare for potential summer surges in cases.
Officials stated that the impact in Denton County remains limited. Because the source of the infections is not yet identified, the agency has not issued a public health advisory. This lack of information has also limited the ability of local health officials to provide targeted prevention recommendations specific to the county.
