State and local health authorities are tracking dozens of cyclosporiasis cases in Maryland and neighboring Virginia as larger Cyclospora outbreaks develop in other parts of the country, officials and a local infectious-disease specialist said Friday.
What residents need to know now
The illness, called cyclosporiasis, is caused by the Cyclospora parasite and is most often linked to contaminated fresh produce, according to local health officials and clinicians. While outbreaks in other states — including a particularly large cluster in Ohio — have sickened many more people, Maryland clinicians say the region is seeing a noticeable increase in cases.
Dr. Greg Schrank, an assistant hospital epidemiologist at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore and an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, discussed the current situation and risk factors with local reporters. He emphasized that public-health investigators are working to determine the exact sources and connections among cases.
- Transmission: Cyclospora is typically spread by ingesting food or water contaminated with the parasite's oocysts.
- Common vehicle: Fresh produce has been implicated in recent outbreaks elsewhere; investigations in the region continue.
- Symptoms: Illness often includes prolonged diarrhea and may require medical evaluation, especially in those with severe symptoms or weakened immune systems.
Local impact and public-health response
Maryland hospitals and public-health departments are monitoring reported illnesses and coordinating with federal partners when outbreaks cross state lines or involve widely distributed produce. Dr. Schrank described the regional pattern and noted that clinicians are advising patients on prevention, testing and treatment options as cases are confirmed.
Public-health investigators typically seek to identify common food items, suppliers and distribution chains when multiple cases are reported. That work informs recalls or public advisories when a contaminated product is identified.
| Item | Current status |
|---|---|
| Maryland cases | Dozens reported |
| Regional comparison | Smaller than large outbreaks elsewhere (e.g., Ohio) |
Precautions and when to seek care
Officials and clinicians recommend practical steps to reduce risk: thoroughly wash produce, follow any public advisories about affected products, and seek medical attention for persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Testing can confirm Cyclospora infection and guide appropriate treatment.
Health departments continue to investigate the cluster in Maryland and will provide updates as more information about sources and case counts becomes available.
— Maryland Correspondent
