Cyclospora cayetanensis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cyclospora cayetanensis |
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| Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Subclass: | |
| Order: |
Eucoccidiorida
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| Suborder: |
Eimeriorina
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| Family: |
Eimeriidae
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| Genus: |
Cyclospora
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| Species: |
C. cayetanensis
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| Binomial name | |
| Cyclospora cayetanensis |
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Cyclospora cayetanensis is a tiny living thing called a protozoan. It is so small you can only see it with a microscope. This protozoan can cause an illness in humans. It mainly affects the intestines, leading to problems like diarrhea.
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What is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a type of parasite. Parasites are organisms that live on or inside another living thing, called a host. They get their food from the host. This specific parasite lives in the intestines of people. It is found in many parts of the world.
How do people get sick?
People usually get sick from Cyclospora by eating or drinking something that has the parasite in it. This often happens with fresh produce. Fruits and vegetables can become contaminated if they touch water or soil that has the parasite. This can happen in places where sanitation is not very good.
What are the symptoms?
If someone gets infected with Cyclospora, they might feel sick a few days or even a week later. The main symptom is watery diarrhea. This diarrhea can last for a long time, sometimes weeks or even months. Other symptoms can include:
- Stomach cramps
- Feeling sick to your stomach (nausea)
- Throwing up (vomiting)
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Feeling tired
It is important to see a doctor if you have these symptoms.
How can we prevent it?
Preventing Cyclospora infection is mostly about being careful with what you eat and drink. Here are some ways to stay safe:
- Wash produce well: Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Use clean running water, especially for produce eaten raw.
- Cook food properly: Cooking food to the right temperature can kill parasites.
- Drink safe water: Avoid drinking untreated water from lakes, rivers, or wells.
- Be careful when traveling: In some countries, it is safer to drink bottled water. Avoid ice made from tap water. Also, be careful with raw fruits and vegetables that you cannot peel yourself.
Images for kids
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Comparing eggs with Cyclospora: Giardia-Cyclospora-Cryptosporidium-bacterium-virus
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Map of states reporting Cyclospora infections as of August 19, 2013, from CIDRAP
See also
In Spanish: Cyclospora cayetanensis para niños
