A parasite called Cyclospora, which can contaminate raw produce and cause severe diarrhea, is making people sick across several states. Nationwide, 145 cases were reported by 17 states between May 1 and June 16, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a single-cell parasite that’s carried in human feces. It gets into food when water contaminated with feces is sprayed on crops. Once on plants, in the humid environment of a farm field, it begins to multiply.
The parasite is killed by heat, so cooking normally takes care of it, but when the weather warms up and people look for ways to leave their stoves off, this stomach-churning bug finds an opening. To keep from getting sick, it’s essential to thoroughly wash all fresh produce before eating it.
Symptoms and Prevention
The primary symptoms of infection are frequent bouts of watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, and a low-grade fever, and these can start two to 14 days after eating contaminated food. Staying hydrated and replenishing electrolytes with a drink like Gatorade or Pedialyte is crucial if you get sick.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
