DETROIT – Think you know the difference between food poisoning and a parasite? That assumption might be why some people don’t get the right treatment.
Cyclosporiasis is an illness caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora. It can look like a typical “stomach bug” until it doesn’t go away.
Thousands of Michiganders have come down with it.
The cases remain the highest in Monroe, Lenawee, Washtenaw, Wayne, Shiawassee, Jackson, Oakland and Livingston counties.
Myth 1: ‘It’s just a 24-hour bug’
Cyclosporiasis is anything but quick. Diarrhea can last for several weeks, and without treatment, symptoms can come and go -- meaning a person might feel better, then fall sick again.
Myth 2: ‘You catch it from someone who’s sick’
Person-to-person spread is very unlikely. Cyclospora must sit in the environment for days to weeks after it’s shed before it becomes infectious.
Myth 3: ‘It’s definitely from lettuce’
The source isn’t always clear. While lettuce has been linked to outbreaks in the past and health officials believe it’s likely a contributing factor, a definitive source has not always been confirmed.
Myth 4: ‘Just wash it and you’re fine’
Washing produce is always a good idea, but it may not fully remove Cyclospora. The most reliable protection is proper cooking, which kills the parasite. The biggest risk comes from raw, contaminated foods.
Myth 5: ‘Antibiotics don’t work because it’s a parasite’
While most antibiotics don’t treat parasitic infections, there is a specific treatment available. A combination drug called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is the standard treatment for most patients with cyclosporiasis.
Myth 6: ‘Healthy people don’t need to worry’
Cyclosporiasis does not discriminate. Healthy individuals are just as susceptible to the parasite as anyone else.
If food poisoning symptoms last more than a couple of days -- or keep coming back -- it’s time to call a doctor.