If you've been following recent headlines, you've likely seen reports of foodborne illness outbreaks involving Cyclospora and Salmonella. Because foodborne illnesses share similar gastrointestinal symptoms with the common stomach virus, telling them apart can be difficult.
Are you concerned about a possible foodborne illness? ARC's NormanMD is here to help. NormanMD's virtual care platform provides patients with 24/7 access to ARC physicians and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) who can assess your symptoms, order any necessary testing, provide a diagnosis, and outline an effective treatment plan.
Cyclosporiasis, salmonellosis, & viral gastroenteritis: Key differences
Cyclosporiasis and salmonellosis are intestinal infections caused by the Cyclospora parasite and Salmonella bacteria. Recent food safety alerts have linked Cyclospora outbreaks to imported iceberg lettuce, while Salmonella outbreaks have been tied to fresh jalapeño peppers as well as white or brown cage-free eggs.
As of August 12, there were more than 300 cases of cyclosporiasis in Texas, up by 100 cases from the week prior, according to The Dallas Morning News. Across the United States, the CDC has reported around 100 egg-related salmonellosis cases and 345 salmonellosis cases related to jalapeños.
Viral gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as the "stomach flu," is an intestinal infection characterized by inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is caused by a viral pathogen that can be contracted through direct contact with an infected person, surface, food, or water.
If you're experiencing gastrointestinal illness and are unsure of the cause, here are some major differences between cyclosporiasis, salmonellosis, and viral gastroenteritis.
Viral gastroenteritis:
- Symptoms start rapidly (within 12 to 48 hours) after exposure.
- Frequently involves vomiting, nausea, and sometimes a low-grade fever alongside watery diarrhea.
- Caused by viruses like norovirus or rotavirus that spread easily from person to person.
- Handled with supportive care focusing on rest and hydration.
Cyclosporiasis:
- Symptoms have a longer incubation period, taking about one week (ranging from two to 14 days) to appear.
- Marked by frequent, explosive, non-bloody diarrhea, severe gas, intense abdominal cramping, profound fatigue, loss of appetite, and notable weight loss, usually without vomiting.
- Acquired from contaminated fresh produce or water. It does not spread directly from person to person (sick family members suggest viral gastroenteritis).
- Requires specific antibiotics because it will not clear with standard "wait-it-out" care. Can last weeks to months if left untreated.
Salmonellosis:
- Symptoms typically begin six hours to six days after exposure with most people showing signs within 12 to 72 hours.
- Symptoms include diarrhea that is sometimes bloody, abdominal cramps and stomach pain, fever and chills, nausea and vomiting as well as headaches and muscle aches.
- Spread through contaminated food, cross-contamination, direct animal contact, and poor hand hygiene.
- Typically resolves on its own. Can be aided with fluid and electrolyte replacement along with anti-diarrheal medications.
When to seek medical attention
While mild viral stomach bugs often clear up with rest and hydration, bacterial and parasitic infections like salmonellosis and cyclosporiasis may require medical intervention.
You should consult NormanMD or visit an ARC clinic if you experience:
- Diarrhea lasting more than three days
- High fever above 102°F
- Bloody stools
- Severe, persistent abdominal pain or cramping
- Signs of dehydration (lightheadedness, dry mouth, racing heart, little to no urination)
- Inability to keep fluids down due to frequent vomiting
Fight foodborne illnesses, stomach viruses with 24/7 on-demand urgent care
Through online messaging or virtual appointments with NormanMD, ARC clinicians can assess your symptoms, order any necessary testing, and prescribe treatment instantly. When necessary, our doctors may refer you to one of 40 ARC clinics across Central Texas with options for Same-Day and After Hours care during nights, weekends, and holidays. On-site lab and X-ray services are also available.
Ready to receive care? Visit NormanMD.com to connect with a clinician today.