The illness, called cyclosporiasis, is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Mecklenburg County health officials say international travel appears to be a major factor, with trips to Mexico and Central America linked to at least 60% of local cases.
People typically become infected after consuming contaminated food or water. Health experts say the illness is extremely unlikely to spread from person to person.
The most common symptom is watery, explosive diarrhea, which can occur frequently and become severe. Other symptoms include:
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Muscle aches
- Low-grade fever
Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure, but they can appear anywhere from two days to more than two weeks later…