Introduction

Cyclospora is an infection of the bowel caused by a tiny parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. It is usually caught from eating raw fruit and vegetables contaminated with human faeces (poo).

Traveller's diarrhoea , which can often be severe, is the most common symptom of cyclospora. Symptoms usuallyappear about a week after catching the parasite.

Other symptoms can include:

  • loss of appetite
  • weight loss
  • stomach cramps or pain
  • bloating
  • increased gas ( flatulence )
  • tiredness
  • feeling sick (nausea)

Less common symptoms include vomiting, body aches, headache , fever and other flu-like symptoms .

Although these symptoms are often unpleasant, cyclospora doesn't usually pose a serious threat to health and can be easily treated using antibiotics .

Some people with cyclospora don't have any symptoms. These areusually peoplewho've grown up in a developing country and been previously exposed to the parasite.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016