In a follow-up to an earlier report on Cyclospora in Canada, health officials reported an additional 10 cases of the parasitic infection in the past week–eight in Ontario and two in Quebec.

Image/ E Pluribus Anthony
Image/ E Pluribus Anthony

This brings the total cases north of the border to 61–British Columbia (1), Alberta (2), Ontario (52), and Quebec (6). One individual required hospitalization for their illness.

The Public Health Agency of Canada says the source of the outbreak has not been identified. Imported fresh produce products are currently items of interest in the ongoing investigation.

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a protozoan parasite that is spread by people ingesting something – such as food or water – that was contaminated with feces.

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.

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.

Cyclospora can be treated with antibiotics.

Related: 

Cyclospora/CDC
Cyclospora/CDC