A cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce has now spread to 15 states, including Arkansas. The Arkansas Department of Health has confirmed cases of cyclospora infection in Miller County, with fewer than 10 local cases reported.

What is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora is a parasitic intestinal illness that people typically contract by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea, as well as weight loss, body aches, and fever.

According to Dr. Kyle Groom with Texarkana Emergency Center and Hospital, “If you continue to have diarrhea and the symptoms that I’ve mentioned before within a couple of days, I would seek treatment. Definitely for any diarrhea that persists longer than a week. It definitely needs to be checked out.”

The outbreak has been linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms. The recalled lettuce products were distributed to grocery stores, restaurants, and other food service providers. Health officials say the number of reported cases continues to rise nationwide, with more than 10,000 confirmed cases reported.

As of Wednesday, Arkansas reported 205 confirmed cases of cyclospora, while Texas reported 198 cases, and Louisiana confirmed 125 cases. Dr. Groom encourages residents to stay informed about food recalls and practice proper food safety habits, such as thorough washing of produce with water, although this may not totally prevent contamination.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.