123: Cyclospora Understanding The Outbreaks

We break down why Cyclospora spikes every summer in the United States and why contaminated fresh produce can cause days to weeks of watery diarrhea. We share what to watch for, what testing to request, and how to lower risk without swearing off fruits and vegetables.
• what Cyclospora is and why humans are the only known host
• why May through August is peak season due to oocyst maturation
• which foods show up most in outbreaks like cilantro and bagged salad mixes
• why routine washing and chlorine are not reliable against Cyclospora
• how fecal oral spread works and why it is not typically person to person
• signature symptoms including explosive watery diarrhea and waxing and waning illness
• who is at higher risk for severe disease including immunocompromised patients
• why routine stool tests can miss it and the need for specific Cyclospora testing
• first-line treatment with TMP-SMX and practical hydration tips
• prevention strategies including recalls, cooking produce, and travel precautions
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Production and Content: Edward Delesky, MD, DABOM & Nicole Aruffo, RN

Artwork Rebrand and Avatars:

Vantage Design Works (Vanessa Jones) 

Website: https://www.vantagedesignworks.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantagedesignworks?igsh=aHRuOW93dmxuOG9m&utm_source=qr

Original Artwork Concept: Olivia Pawlowski