Summer is a time for fresh fruits, vegetables, backyard gatherings, and travel—but it’s also the season when certain foodborne illnesses become more common. This year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating multiple clusters of Cyclospora infections reported across at least 29 states. While no single food source has been identified and Arizona is not experiencing a localized outbreak, the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) is encouraging healthcare providers to consider Cyclospora in patients with persistent diarrhea during the summer months. People coming down with symptoms are looking for urgent cares near Phoenix, doctors in Scottsdale, and help from just about anywhere they can find it!

Dr Mara Windsor and the team at Dr. Housecalls of Paradise Valley want our patients to know what Cyclospora is, what symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to seek medical care.

What Is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine and causes an illness known as cyclosporiasis. People become infected by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite. Fresh produce—including leafy greens, herbs, berries, and other fruits and vegetables—has been linked to past outbreaks, although investigators have not yet identified a common source for the current multistate cases.

Unlike many stomach viruses, Cyclospora infections are not commonly spread from person to person. The parasite must spend at least a week in the environment before it becomes infectious, making direct transmission between family members or coworkers very unlikely.

Symptoms of Cyclospora Infection

Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure but can develop anywhere from two days to two weeks later.

The most common symptom is:

• Prolonged watery diarrhea

Other symptoms may include:

• Frequent loose bowel movements
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Abdominal cramping
• Bloating and increased gas
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever

Without treatment, symptoms can last for several weeks and may come and go over time. Some people improve temporarily, only to have diarrhea return days later.

Why This Year’s Advisory Matters

Arizona typically sees only a small number of Cyclospora cases each summer. However, because infections are being reported across many states, healthcare providers are being reminded not to rule out Cyclospora simply because a patient hasn’t traveled internationally.

If you’ve developed persistent diarrhea during the summer, especially if symptoms continue for more than a few days, it is worth discussing Cyclospora with your physician.

Diagnosing Cyclospora Isn’t Always Straightforward

Cyclospora requires specialized laboratory testing and is not detected on many routine stool tests.

Your physician may order:

• A gastrointestinal PCR panel that specifically includes Cyclospora.
• A stool ova and parasite (O&P) examination with specific Cyclospora testing requested, since standard O&P testing does not routinely include it.

Diagnosis can sometimes be challenging because the parasite is shed intermittently. A single negative stool sample does not completely rule out infection, and your physician may recommend collecting stool specimens on multiple days if Cyclospora remains strongly suspected.

How Is Cyclospora Treated?

The good news is that Cyclospora is treatable.

For most healthy adults, the recommended treatment is the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) taken twice daily for 7 to 10 days.

Patients with weakened immune systems may require higher doses or a longer course of treatment.

Unfortunately, there is no equally effective alternative medication for patients with a sulfonamide allergy. In those situations, an infectious disease specialist may be consulted to help determine the best management plan.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Occasional stomach upset is common, but persistent diarrhea deserves medical evaluation.

Consider scheduling a medical visit if you experience:

• Watery diarrhea lasting more than several days
• Signs of dehydration, including dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination
• Significant weakness or fatigue
• Blood in your stool
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Fever that accompanies ongoing diarrhea

Early evaluation can help determine whether Cyclospora or another gastrointestinal infection is responsible for your symptoms and allow treatment to begin sooner.

Physician House Calls for Gastrointestinal Illness in Paradise Valley and Scottsdale

When you’re dealing with prolonged diarrhea, leaving home to sit in a crowded waiting room is often the last thing you want to do. Dr. Mara Windsor and her team at Dr Housecalls of Paradise Valley provide physician-led medical care in the comfort of your home, including evaluation of gastrointestinal illnesses, dehydration, and other acute medical concerns.

Our board-certified emergency physicians can perform a comprehensive assessment, recommend appropriate diagnostic testing, and determine whether your symptoms can be safely managed at home or require additional care.

If you’ve been experiencing persistent diarrhea this summer, we’re here to help you get answers and the right treatment without the hassle of an urgent care or emergency room visit. Rather than finding an urgent care near Scottsdale or a doctor in Phoenix, give us a call and we can come help you in the comfort of your own home.