The Arkansas Department of Health confirmed Monday that a total of 277 cases of cyclosporiasis have been identified in the state so far this year, an increase of just two cases since Friday. More than half of those infections are concentrated in Benton County.
What is cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The parasite is typically spread through consumption of fresh produce that has been contaminated with feces‑contaminated irrigation water. Commonly affected foods include parsley, cilantro, snow peas, mesclun lettuce, spinach, salad mixes, and berries such as raspberries, blueberries and blackberries.
Symptoms and treatment
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most frequent symptom is watery diarrhea, often accompanied by loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. Less common signs include vomiting, body aches, headache, low‑grade fever and other flu‑like symptoms. For most individuals the illness lasts several days, but severe or persistent cases may require antibiotics to clear the infection.
Health officials’ advice
Dr. Austin Porter, an epidemiologist with the Arkansas Department of Health, emphasized basic food‑safety steps: “Wash your hands. Anytime you’re going to be eating fruits or vegetables, wash those fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water. There are vegetable brushes you can use. If you’re going to be cooking those fruits and vegetables, make sure they reach an internal temperature of 158 degrees.”
He added that while the source of the current outbreak has not been pinpointed, past incidents have been linked to contaminated irrigation water and to distribution channels that move produce to both grocery stores and restaurants, making it difficult to trace the exact point of contamination.
Broader context
Since May 1, more than 11,000 cases of cyclosporiasis have been confirmed or are under investigation nationwide, according to CDC data. The Arkansas Department of Health continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant when handling fresh produce, especially during the summer months when the parasite is more prevalent. For additional guidance on safe food handling, visit the Arkansas Department of Health website or contact your local health department.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
