Health District Confirms First Churchill County Case of Cyclosporiasis

The Central Nevada Health District (CNHD) has confirmed the first case of cyclosporiasis in Churchill County after a local resident with no recent history of travel outside Nevada was diagnosed with the intestinal illness.

The resident was evaluated and diagnosed at a Renown medical facility. Public health officials have not identified the food or environmental source of the infection, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The lack of recent travel distinguishes the Churchill County case from previous Nevada cases, which were linked to travel outside the state.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People typically become infected by consuming contaminated food or water, most often fresh produce. The illness is not generally spread from person to person.

Common symptoms include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Health officials advise anyone experiencing those symptoms to contact a healthcare provider promptly.

CNHD said identifying the source of the exposure remains a priority. The district will continue working with state and federal public health partners as the investigation continues.

Health officials urge residents experiencing symptoms consistent with cyclosporiasis to contact a healthcare provider.