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Cases of explosive diarrhea caused by Cyclospora have sparked concern among the Mexican population and increased questions about what this intestinal infection can cause in the body and to one's health. The parasite causes an illness characterized by intense diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal symptoms that, without treatment, can last for weeks. How can you identify and prevent this disease? We tell you so you can take precautions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed more than 1,600 cases in the United States, including 94 people who were hospitalized after eating at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
Following the increase in cases in the United States, authorities in Mexico issued a preventive travel advisory for those who will soon be visiting the country. Likewise, given this situation, Mexicans have begun to express their fear regarding potential cases within the country.
¿Qué es la diarrea explosiva?
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine and causes a disease called cyclosporiasis.
¿Qué causa la diarrea explosiva?
The infection occurs primarily by consuming contaminated water or food, especially fresh fruits and vegetables that were not washed or disinfected properly.
¿Cuáles son los síntomas de la Cyclospora?
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the most common symptoms include:
- Diarrea intensa o explosiva
- Evacuaciones acuosas frecuentes
- Dolor o cólicos abdominales
- Náuseas
- Pérdida del apetito
- Fatiga o cansancio extremo
- Gases e inflamación abdominal
- Pérdida de peso
- Fiebre baja en algunos casos.
Without treatment, symptoms can disappear and reappear over several weeks. Also, consider that symptoms can appear approximately 2 to 14 days after consuming contaminated food or water.
¿Quiénes tienen mayor riesgo de enfermarse?
Anyone can contract the infection.
¿Cómo se diagnostica?
Diagnosis is usually made through laboratory tests on stool samples, where the presence of the parasite is identified. In some cases, additional studies may be required if symptoms persist or if there are other possible causes for the diarrhea.
¿Cuál es el tratamiento?
The most commonly used treatment consists of specific antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. In addition, it is essential to:
-Maintain good hydration.
-Replace electrolytes if there is intense diarrhea.
-Follow medical instructions.
-Avoid self-medication.
If a person shows signs of dehydration, blood in the stool, high fever, or prolonged symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately.
¿Cómo prevenir la infección por Cyclospora?
The main prevention measures include:
- Lavar y desinfectar frutas y verduras antes de consumirlas
- Beber únicamente agua potable o purificada
- Lavarse las manos con agua y jabón antes de preparar alimentos y después de ir al baño
- Mantener una correcta higiene durante la preparación de los alimentos.
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