The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) is investigating a sudden rise in cyclosporiasis cases. The intestinal illness is caused by a microscopic parasite and spread by consuming fecal contaminated food or water.
From an MDH press release:
Thirty-seven of the 42 lab-confirmed cases reported between Jan.1 and July 20 have been reported over the last two weeks, part of an overall recent rise in reported cyclosporiasis cases in other parts of the U.S.
The press relates notes that no specific source for the recent infections has been identified. Untreated the illness can last several weeks to more than a month. Symptoms include but are not limited to watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea, and fatigue. The department urges people who are experiencing symptoms to contact their healthcare provider for testing and treatment.
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