Source of parasite puzzles state health officials
Sentinel Staff Writer
May 24, 2005
Health officials still don't know what is causing a widespread outbreak of a parasite called cyclospora that has been confirmed in 233 people from 31 counties statewide.
People typically catch the single-cell parasite from contaminated water or fresh fruits and vegetables. It causes bouts of diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, stomach cramps, muscle aches and low-grade fever.
A spokeswoman for the Florida Department of Health said Monday that investigators still are trying to nail down the source of the outbreak.
The state became aware of the problem in April, and additional cases continue to be confirmed by laboratory results. However, because the illness can lapse and return repeatedly, it's not clear whether the source of the parasite is still in the community, spokeswoman Lindsay Hodges said.
Robyn Shelton
sentinel medical writer
