Alabama reports first cases amid national outbreak of cyclosporiasis

A national outbreak of a gastrointestinal illness may have reached Alabama, according to the latest data from the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH).

As of July 16, ADPH has reported 11 cases of cyclosporiasis in the state which is higher than usual at this time of year. There have been no hospitalizations reported from the illness so far in Alabama.

Of the 11 reported cases:

• 9 in Northern District
• 1 in Northeastern District
• 1 in Southwestern District

The department said it is still unsure if any of these cases are connected to the national outbreak but possibly two or more were “internationally acquired.”

Cyclospora parasite in Alabama

Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a notice about a significant increase in domestically acquired cyclosporiasis cases in multiple U.S. states.

Cyclosporiasis is a stomach illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora. Symptoms typically begin about one week after exposure and include frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, nausea and fatigue.

Past outbreaks have been linked to contaminated fresh produce including:

• Cilantro
• Basil
• Leafy greens
• Green onions
• Raspberries
• Snow peas

According to the Associated Press, the CDC warned consumers not to eat shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell restaurants in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.

The ADPH is recommending that healthcare providers test patients with prolonged symptoms for cyclosporiasis, especially during cyclosporiasis season (May–August), even without a history of international travel.