A Parasite Is Making North Texans Sick — Here's What to Know
If you or someone in your family has had stomach trouble that just won't go away, this may be worth a few minutes of your time.
What's Happening
Texas health officials are tracking a rise in cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora. As of mid-July, the state had confirmed 68 cases and 15 hospitalizations, including cases in Denton and Tarrant counties. Cyclospora season runs May 1 through August 31, so North Texas is in the middle of it right now.
How You Get It
Cyclospora spreads through contaminated food or water — not from person to person contact. Past outbreaks have been traced to fresh produce such as cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and bagged salad greens.
Symptoms to Know
Symptoms usually begin about a week after exposure, though the range can be anywhere from 2 to 14 days:
- Frequent, watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Bloating, gas, and stomach cramps
- Nausea and unusual fatigue
- Sometimes a low-grade fever
**This isn't a typical stomach bug.** Left untreated, symptoms can last from a few days to a month or longer — and they often come and go. You feel better for a day or two, then relapse.
Why It Needs Treatment
Cyclosporiasis doesn't resolve on its own. It requires a specific antibiotic to clear the infection. At ER of Texas, all six locations offer the antibiotics needed to treat it, IV rehydration, pain and nausea medication, and physician-directed care — so you can start feeling better the same day, without the long wait of a hospital ER or the guesswork of urgent care.
When to Come In
Most mild cases can be managed with rest and fluids through your primary care doctor. Come to ER of Texas right away if you or your child has:
- Diarrhea lasting more than a few days, especially with severe fatigue or appetite loss
- Signs of dehydration — dizziness, very little urination, dry mouth, confusion
- Inability to keep liquids down
- Bloody stool or a high fever
- Any of the above in an infant, an older adult, or someone with a weakened immune system
We're Here for You
If any of these symptoms show up — or for any emergency need — come see us. All six ER of Texas locations are open 24/7, with no wait times and no appointment needed. Just pick the location nearest you.
We have 6 facilities spread across the DFW area with average wait times of less than 10 mins that are OPEN 24/7 located in Hurst, Colleyville, Highland Village, Hillcrest, Little Elm, and Sherman.
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