Community Corner

The Stomach Bug You Have Might Need A Prescription

Nearly 300 people in eight states — including Connecticut — have been striken with Cyclospora. The U.S. CDC is investigating the cause.


By Elissa Bass

The federal Centers for Disease Control is investigating an outbreak in eight states, affecting nearly 300 people, of a stomach illness caused by Cyclospora, the one-celled parasite that causes diarrhea, stomach cramps and other symptoms normally associated with a viral stomach bug.

There has been one confirmed case in Connecticut.

The parasite is common in tropical regions like Latin America, but isn't typically seen in the United States, according to the CDC. Most of the people affected were in Iowa, Nebraska and Texas, but Wisconsin, Georgia, Connecticut, Illinois and Kansas have had a few cases, as well.

If you have had a lingering stomach 'bug,' a call to your doctor might be in order. Your doctor because he or she can do specific tests and prescribe an antibiotic that will rid your body of the microscopic pest.

According to the CDC website:

  • Most of the illness onset dates have ranged from mid-June through early July.
  • At least 10 persons reportedly have been hospitalized in three states.
  • No food items have been implicated to date, but public health authorities are pursuing all leads. Previous outbreak investigations have implicated various types of fresh produce.
  • It is not yet clear whether the cases from all of the states are part of the same outbreak.
  • No common events (e.g., social gatherings) have been identified among the case patients.
  • Additional cases are currently under investigation and will be included on this page as states confirm them.

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