Cruise Ship Epidemics
Cyclospora Cayetanensis
Fecal Oral Transmitted Disease
Cyclospora Cayetanensis
What is Cyclospora cayetanensis?
Cyclospora cayetanensis (SIGH-clo-SPORE-uh KYE-uh-tuh-NEN-sis) is a parasite composed of one cell, too small to be seen without a microscope. The parasite causes an intestinal infection called cyclosporiasis.
How Is cayetanensis spread?
Cyclospora is spread by people ingesting something, such as food, water, that was contaminated with feces (stool). Cyclospora needs time (days or weeks) after being passed in a bowel movement to become infectious for another person. Therefore, it is unlikely that Cyclospora is passed directly from one person to another.
Who is at risk?
People of all ages are at risk for infection. Persons living or traveling in tropical or subtropical regions may be at increased risk because cyclosporiasis is endemic (found) in some developing countries. Foodborne outbreaks of cyclosporiasis in the United States and Canada have been linked to various types of imported fresh produce.
What are the symptoms of Cyclospora infection?
The time between becoming infected and becoming sick is usually about 1 week. Cyclospora infects the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes watery diarrhea, with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements. Other common symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps/pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. Vomiting, body aches, headache, fever, and other flu-like symptoms may be noted. Some people who are infected with Cyclospora do not have any symptoms.
How long can the symptoms last?
If not treated, the illness may last from a few days to a month or longer. Symptoms may seem to go away and then return one or more times (relapse). It's common to feel very tired.
How is Cyclospora infection treated?
The recommended treatment is a combination of two antibiotics, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, also known as Bactrim*, Septra*, or Cotrim*. People who have diarrhea should also rest and drink plenty of fluids.
How is Cyclospora infection prevented?
Avoiding water or food that may be contaminated with stool may help prevent Cyclospora infection. People who have previously been infected with Cyclospora can become infected again.
NOTE: Cases reported in this category only reflect those reported to the infirmary. Many passengers do not seek medical care aboard a ship, due to the high expense.
