Parasite illnesses increasing locally and statewide

Indiana’s cases of digestive distress caused by cyclosporiasis have continued to rise by about 100 per day, and local cases are increasing too.

At this time, Indiana Department of Health has confirmed eight Wayne County cases of the parasite that can cause severe diarrhea and other digestive distress, fever, and other flu-like symptoms for weeks.

Seven cases have been confirmed in Henry County and two in Randolph.

As of Tuesday, July 28, Wayne and Henry counties each had three cases and Randolph County had one. Each county’s numbers rose by one case in state data made available July 29. Numbers for Wayne and Henry counties each rose by one July 30 and Aug. 3. Wayne County added two cases July 31.

“We haven’t received any updates on possible links in our area,” said Beth Newton, Wayne County Health Department’s deputy director of clinical services.

Statewide, 1,349 Hoosiers have tested positive for the parasite between May 1 and Aug. 3, according to IDOH. The age range for patients is 0 to 98.

Allen County (Fort Wayne area) still leads the state with 276 cases, followed by Marion County with 106.

Symptoms normally begin around seven days after exposure but can range from two to 14 days.

While most people with healthy immune systems will recover without treatment, IDOH urges those experiencing gastrointestinal illness, such as severe diarrhea, to contact a healthcare provider for lab testing and treatment.

Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics, and it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids while experiencing diarrhea, IDOH leaders say.

IDOH says symptoms can last for a few days to more than a month without medication. Treatment is also important because cyclosporiasis can be a cyclical illness, as some people might feel sick, then better for a few days, and then start to feel sick again.

IDOH officials say they continue to work with local, state and federal public health partners to identify possible source(s).

Previous U.S. outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been linked to bagged salad mixes and kits (precut lettuce blends with romaine, iceberg, cabbage, carrots), fresh herbs such as cilantro and basil, raspberries, green onions, and other fresh produce, IDOH said.

On Aug. 3, The Washington Post reported two cyclospora-related deaths in Michigan; both had significant underlying health conditions.

IDOH provides data each weekday at in.gov/health/idepd/diseases-and-conditions-resource-page/cyclosporiasis/.