Cyclospora cayetanensis is a unicellular parasite that causes illness in humans. Little information is known about the natural reservoir (s) for Cyclospora. A cyclospora infection presents with a one-day prodrome of malaise and slight fever followed by explosive watery diarrhea along with loss of appetite, severe abdominal cramps, and vomiting. Cyclospora can be transmitted by the ingestion of food or water contaminated with oocysts. Symptoms occur about 1 week after exposure to a Cyclospora oocyst and illness may last for a few days up to a month or longer. Cyclospora infections can be treated with a course of oral antibiotics. The best way to prevent a Cyclospora infection is to avoid food and water that may be contaminated with feces.

Table 1: Cyclospora in Maryland residents 1998-2002

Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
Epidemiology and Disease Control Program
Emerging Infections Program
201 W. Preston St., 3rd Floor
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-6234
Fax: 410-725-4825
Email: MDEIP@dhmh.state.md.us