Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause an intestinal illness called cyclosporiasis. People usually become infected by eating fresh produce that has been contaminated. A recent outbreak has been linked to shredded lettuce served at some restaurants and food-service locations as well as other developing cases that may be linked to additional produce.
Why Dialysis Patients Are at Higher Risk
People receiving dialysis may have a weaker immune system, making it harder to fight infections. While many healthy people recover on their own, Cyclospora infection can last longer and cause more severe symptoms in dialysis patients.
Know the Symptoms
Symptoms usually begin about one week after eating contaminated food, but they can take longer to appear. Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea that lasts several days or longer
- Stomach cramps or bloating
- Nausea
- Fatigue or weakness
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
How It Spreads and How to Protect Yourself
Cyclospora is most often spread by eating contaminated fresh fruits or vegetables or drinking contaminated water. It is not commonly spread directly from one person to another.
You can reduce your risk by:
- Washing fresh fruits and vegetables before eating them
- Following any food recalls or public health advisories
- Being cautious with salads or raw produce from restaurants if there is an active outbreak
- Washing your hands with soap and water before eating or preparing food and after using the restroom
- Drinking safe, clean water
If you develop symptoms, tell your dialysis care team right away.
What to Do If You Think You Have Cyclosporisasis
If you develop diarrhea or other symptoms:
- Contact your nephrologist or primary care provider as soon as possible
- Tell your dialysis care team about your symptoms
- Continue coming to your dialysis treatments unless your care team gives you different instructions. Missing dialysis treatments can be dangerous.
- Drink only the amount of fluid recommended by your kidney care team. Do not increase your fluid intake without medical guidance.
When to Seek Immediate Care
Call your healthcare provider right away or seek emergency care if you have:
- Severe or persistent diarrhea
- Signs of dehydration such as dizziness, confusion, or extreme weakness
- Blood in your stool
- A fever that is high or does not improve
- Difficulty keeping food or medications down
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your healthcare provider may order a special stool test to look for Cyclospora. Routine stool tests do not always detect this parasite, so it is important to mention your symptoms and any possible exposure.
Cyclospora is usually treated with prescription antibiotics. Because dialysis patients have special medication needs, your healthcare provider will choose the safest dose for you. Do not take antibiotics unless they are prescribed for you.
Things Dialysis Patients Should Remember
- Dialysis patients may be at higher risk for complications from Cyclospora.
- Report diarrhea or stomach illness to your dialysis team promptly.
- Early evaluation and treatment can help prevent complications.
- Never skip dialysis treatments without speaking to your care team first.
At Innovative Renal Care, we are committed to delivering a dialysis experience that goes beyond the treatment itself. As a physician-partnered and nurse-led organization, our focus is on collaboration, innovation, and data driven care.
We're delivering more tomorrows to our patients, their families, and friends. For the latest information about the Cyclospora outbreak, visit the CDC website or speak with your healthcare provider.
