ASHEBORO, N.C. (ACME NEWS) — North Carolina has reported at least 240 cases of cyclosporiasis since May 1, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday.
The intestinal illness is caused by a microscopic parasite spread through contaminated food or water. The time between infection and illness is usually about one week. Without treatment, symptoms can last for days or weeks. The disease is usually treated with antibiotics.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the outbreak has sickened more than 843 people across 31 states, with 86 hospitalizations and no deaths. However, that number is likely an undercount, as the CDC only counts domestic cases and says they are aware “that states are likely to report higher case counts of cyclosporiasis than reflected in CDC data.”
The parasite typically causes watery diarrhea with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements. Other common symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea and fatigue. Some people experience vomiting, body aches, headache, fever and flu-like symptoms. Some infected people have no symptoms at all.
People experiencing symptoms should contact a health care provider and specifically request Cyclospora testing, as it is not included in many routine stool tests. A single negative test may not rule out infection.
Health officials recommend:
— Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling raw fruits and vegetables.
— Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
— Scrub firm produce such as melons and cucumbers with a clean produce brush.
— Cut away any damaged or bruised areas before preparing.
— Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked produce within two hours.
Fruits and vegetables labeled “prewashed” do not need additional washing at home. Routine chemical disinfection is unlikely to kill Cyclospora.
People traveling should be aware of cyclosporiasis and take extra precautions with food and water:
— Wash hands often with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food and after using the bathroom.
— Drink only bottled or boiled water or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water and ice cubes.
— Follow country-specific food safety guidelines for your destination. Health officials advise consulting CDC travel guidance for your specific destination.
State and federal authorities are investigating several clusters of cases across multiple states to identify common food sources. The parasite is most commonly linked to fresh produce eaten raw, including fruits, leafy greens and herbs such as basil, cilantro and parsley.
More information is available at the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services website or by contacting your local health department.
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