Saba Azad Hospitalised by Cyclospora: Parasite Infection Symptoms Explained

Actor Saba Azad opened up about a severe health scare that left her hospitalised and weakened. In a candid social media post, she revealed she was diagnosed with a parasitic infection caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, leading to a dramatic 4kg weight loss in just two weeks. Her experience has sparked widespread concern about food safety and parasitic infections. “Worst 14 days of my life. Cyclospora cayetanensis - you nasty piece of work!! For someone who only ever eats home food, carries her water bottle everywhere, this stomach bug came out of nowhere, that too at the busiest time of the year for me. I’ve lost 4 kgs that I didn’t have spare in two weeks, and I can barely walk,” she wrote on Instagram. “Please, for the love of your gut, wash

your salad leaves and veg like your life depends on it - cause sometimes it really does! Our new method is Baking soda plus veggie wash,” she added.

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A post shared by Saba Azad (@sabazad)

What is Cyclospora cayetanensis?

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestines and causes an illness known as cyclosporiasis. It is commonly spread through contaminated food or water, especially raw fruits and vegetables that haven’t been washed properly. This infection is more common in warm climates and can affect even those who follow strict hygiene practices, as contamination often occurs at the source. Cyclospora infection is not always mild. Without timely treatment, symptoms can last for weeks or even relapse. The resulting dehydration, nutrient loss, and weakness can significantly impact daily life. Hospitalisation may be required in cases of:

• Severe dehydration
• Rapid weight loss
• Inability to eat or drink properly

Also read: What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Cucumber Water Regularly

Signs and symptoms of Cyclospora cayetanensis infection

The symptoms can be intense and long-lasting, often appearing within a week of exposure. Common signs include:

• Persistent watery diarrhoea
• Severe fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite and rapid weight loss
• Abdominal cramps and bloating
• Nausea and mild fever

In Saba’s case, the infection led to extreme weakness, turning an active fitness routine into a struggle for basic movement.

Prevention and safety tips

To reduce your risk of foodborne parasitic infections, follow these simple but crucial tips:

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water
• Peel produce where possible
• Avoid consuming raw food from unreliable sources
• Maintain proper kitchen hygiene
• Drink clean, filtered water

How does the infection spread?

The parasite is typically transmitted through unwashed or improperly washed fruits and vegetables, contaminated water sources, and food handled in unhygienic conditions. Even people who eat mostly home-cooked meals, like Saba, can be affected if the raw ingredients are contaminated. The parasite also needs specific environmental conditions like warmth and humidity to mature from an unsporulated or non-infectious state to a sporulated, or infectious state after being shed in feces. Because the oocysts are not immediately infectious upon shedding, it is unlikely to be passed directly from person to person through direct contact.

How to stay safe?

To reduce your risk of foodborne parasitic infections, follow these simple but crucial tips:

• Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water
• Peel produce where possible
• Avoid consuming raw food from unreliable sources
• Maintain proper kitchen hygiene
• Drink clean, filtered water

Cyclospora infections are usually treated with specific antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Early diagnosis is key to faster recovery. Recovery may take time, especially if the infection has caused significant weight loss or weakness. Proper hydration, nutrition, and rest are essential for regaining strength.