ASHLAND — A stomach illness that lingers for weeks may be more than the typical stomach bug.
Ashland County Board of Health members are monitoring an increase in confirmed cyclosporiasis cases. Members said greater awareness and testing may be contributing to the rise in reported cases.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that spreads through contaminated food or water, commonly through fresh produce. Cyclosporiasis cases typically increase during warmer months, when the illness is more frequently associated with contaminated food.
Symptoms can include watery diarrhea, explosive bowel movements, nausea, fatigue and stomach cramps, sometimes lasting for weeks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Cyclosporiasis cases in Ashland have doubled in the past week, according to the board, with 17 confirmed cases reported as of Tuesday’s meeting.
The confirmed cases only represent tested individuals. Board members said the actual number could be higher because some people may recover without seeking medical care or testing.
Cyclosporiasis has been reported in Ashland County in previous years. Board members said increased public awareness surrounding the illness may be leading more residents to seek testing.
Board member and physician Dr. Patrick Furness said diagnosing cyclosporiasis often requires gastrointestinal testing. Stool testing can be expensive and may not be necessary for patients whose symptoms are improving.
“Modern healthcare is extremely expensive and I’m not trying to saddle people with bills,” Furness said.
Testing does not always change treatment. Many cases resolve on their own. However, prescription medication is available for persistent symptoms.
Board member Doug Campbell said increased awareness of the illness may be contributing to more residents recognizing the symptoms.
“Once you put out there that this is going around, everybody’s going to come in and say, ‘I think I have it,'” Campbell said.
Awareness can help residents better understand the illness, but symptoms alone do not confirm an infection. Other gastrointestinal illnesses can cause similar symptoms, making it difficult to determine the exact number of cases in the community.
Residents who experience diarrhea which lasts longer than expected, particularly for several weeks, should contact their healthcare provider. Prolonged symptoms may require additional treatment.
