Cyclosporiasis cases rise in Florida as testing remains costly and limited

Cyclosporiasis cases are climbing across Florida, with more than 450 reported statewide, including 39 in Lee County and seven in Collier County, but testing for the illness remains costly and limited. Susan Hook, a nurse practitioner at Samaritan Health and Wellness Center, said the illness has led some patients to seek urgent medical care due to severe symptoms. "The patients that I've had that have had over 20 stools a day, that's a little excessive, so you're usually going to seek help at that point," Hook said. Hook added that her clinic has seen several cases of cyclosporiasis. "We have seen several cases. In fact, some in our staff and some in patients," Hook said. Testing for cyclosporiasis requires a specific stool test, but not all providers offer it. Hook explained that her clinic does not conduct testing due to the high costs involved. "We're not testing anyone. We serve mainly people that are uninsured. And so from the testing that I understand is somewhat expensive for patients to access if they don't have insurance," Hook said. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stool tests may not always identify the parasite. Testing can cost hundreds of dollars with or without insurance and is only available at certain medical providers. Lee Health hospitals offer specialized testing for cyclosporiasis, with same-day results available if needed. Hook said she is treating symptoms of the illness with antibiotics as recommended by the CDC. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment, and original programming on your TV.