The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is notifying health care providers of a significant increase in cyclosporiasis cases in Michigan, along with a slight rise in the number of cases in Windsor-Essex County (WEC). Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Locally reported cases are typically travel-related or associated with consumption of contaminated fresh products. WECHU encourages health care providers to consider testing for cyclosporiasis in patients presenting with compatible signs and symptoms, particularly those with recent travel to Michigan, New York, Ohio, Illinois, and Florida.
Clinical Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms typically develop 2 to 14 days after exposure and may include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Cramping and abdominal pain
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Feeling tired and unwell
Specimen Collection and Testing
Diagnosis requires confirmation through Enteric Protozoa PCR or Cyclospora PCR testing. A stool specimen should be submitted using a Cary-Blair vial or a sterile, empty vial. For additional information on testing, refer to Public Health Ontario - Enteric Protozoa - PCR.
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