If you’ve been looking for a reason to be extra thorough when washing your salad, this might be it.
Ohio has reported 177 cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, according to the Ohio Department of Health. While the name might not ring a bell, one of its most well-known symptoms definitely will: explosive diarrhea.
As of July 2, health officials had confirmed 177 cases statewide. Nearly all of them—171 cases—were reported in June, with most occurring after June 20.
The illness has also shown up across Central Ohio. According to the Ohio Department of Health, Franklin County has reported 10 cases, while neighboring counties including Licking (7), Crawford (7), Ross (4), Fairfield (3), Pickaway (2), Morrow (2), Knox (1), and Marion (1) have also reported infections.
Before everyone starts panic-buying canned food, local health officials say this isn’t an unusual outbreak.
Columbus Public Health says cyclosporiasis is something the agency sees every year during the warmer months and that it is not currently seeing more cases than expected. Franklin County Public Health has also been tracking cases since mid-June.
So what exactly is cyclosporiasis?
The illness is caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. People become infected after consuming contaminated food or water, most commonly fresh produce that hasn’t been thoroughly washed. Unlike many stomach bugs, it generally doesn’t spread directly from person to person.
Symptoms usually begin about a week after exposure and can include watery diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, bloating, fatigue, low-grade fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss. The diarrhea can be frequent—and yes, explosive.
Without treatment, symptoms can linger for days or even several weeks. The infection is typically treated with the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, though many otherwise healthy people eventually recover on their own.
Health officials say the best defense is surprisingly simple:
- Wash your hands before preparing food.
- Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.
- Scrub firm produce like melons and cucumbers with a clean produce brush.
- Refrigerate cut produce promptly.
- If you’ve had diarrhea, avoid swimming in public pools until you’ve recovered.
If you’re dealing with prolonged diarrhea, severe dehydration, or symptoms that don’t improve, it’s a good idea to contact your healthcare provider.
The good news? While the parasite is unpleasant, health officials say it’s both preventable and treatable. The bad news? You may never look at an unwashed bag of lettuce the same way again.
