Foodborne Illnesses / Cyclospora /

Symptoms of Cyclospora Infection

What are the typical symptoms of Cyclospora infection?

Cyclospora infects the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes watery diarrhea, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, flatulence, loss of appetite, nausea, low-grade fever, and profound fatigue. In some cases, vomiting, explosive diarrhea, muscle aches, and substantial weight loss can occur. The incubation period between acquisition of infection and onset of symptoms averages ~1 week (ranges from ~2–14 or more days); however, some people who are infected with Cyclospora do not have any symptoms.

If not treated, the illness may last from a few days up to six weeks. Symptoms also may recur one or more times (relapse) over the course of several months. In addition, people who have previously been infected with Cyclospora can become infected again.