All jokes aside, if you’ve watched the news or spent any time scrolling social media lately, you’ve probably heard about the recent cases of persistent diarrhea linked to Cyclospora. It has many people wondering: Is it really that serious?
Dr. Jonathan Thierman, emergency medicine physician and president and chief executive officer of ExpressCare Urgent Care, shares what you need to know below.
- Because symptoms often don’t appear until about a week after eating contaminated food, it’s difficult to know exactly how widespread the outbreak is.
- If you think you may have Cyclospora, you can be tested and treated at any ExpressCare Urgent Care location. Early diagnosis allows treatment with antibiotics to begin promptly and can help shorten the illness.
- While Cyclospora can cause severe, persistent diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms, most people recover fully with appropriate treatment.
- Older adults, young children and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for complications and should seek medical care if symptoms develop.
- There’s no need to stop eating fruits and vegetables. Locally grown produce may be a safer option, but all fresh produce should be washed thoroughly before eating. Cooking produce can also help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
The bottom line: Don’t stop eating fruits and vegetables. Wash all produce thoroughly before eating, use extra caution with bagged salads and leafy greens, and seek medical care if you develop persistent diarrhea or other symptoms that don’t improve.