A Texas woman is among more than 140 individuals across the United States who have recently contracted cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal infection causing severe diarrhea and vomiting. Cristy Cooper, 51, described her experience from a hospital bed, calling the illness the worst she has ever endured.
Between May and June, 145 people ranging in age from 5 to 86 were diagnosed with cyclosporiasis across 20 states. New York reported the highest number of cases, followed by Texas and Illinois. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating the outbreak, but has not identified a specific food source, though fresh, imported produce is often linked to the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
While no deaths have been reported, 40 individuals have been hospitalized, including Cooper. She first experienced symptoms on June 25, describing "unbearable" diarrhea with extreme force and volume, accompanied by excessive gas, fatigue, vomiting, nausea, cramping, and a fever of 100.2 degrees Fahrenheit. At its peak, Cooper reported using the toilet up to 30 times a day.
"The amount of pressure when it comes out. The force is crazy," Cooper told The Post. "Normally diarrhea would never send me to an ER."
Cooper, who is immunocompromised due to being on dialysis, found her condition particularly challenging. Restricted fluid intake, necessary for her medical condition, complicated her treatment. After initial self-care proved insufficient, she checked herself into the hospital, where she received her diagnosis. Due to a sulfa allergy, she is being treated with ciprofloxacin.
She noted that the illness has caused a significant loss of appetite, with food tasting unappealing. Cooper estimates she has lost at least 10 pounds during her illness. Recovery can take weeks for healthy individuals, but can be longer and more severe for those who are immunocompromised. Some individuals experience relapses of symptoms.
While health authorities investigate potential sources, Cooper recalled purchasing peaches and tomatoes from a roadside stand, as well as cantaloupe and a bagged Caesar salad from a grocery store approximately three weeks before falling ill. The CDC has stated that there is no evidence linking all reported illnesses to a single source or outbreak. Local, state, and federal health authorities are continuing their investigations.
Cooper advises thorough washing of all produce and hands before and during food preparation, noting that even pre-washed items may require additional cleaning. She emphasized that even meticulous washing does not completely eliminate the risk of contracting the parasite.