A parasite that can contaminate raw produce and causes ferocious and long-lasting bouts of diarrheal illness is making people sick across several states. The parasite, cyclosporiasis, is typically spread through contaminated food or water.
Outbreaks Reported
Nationwide, 145 cases were reported by 17 states between May 1 and June 16, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At least 20 of those have been hospitalized, according to the CDC. Michigan and New York State have seen a significant number of cases, with Michigan reporting at least 170 cases and New York State reporting 107 cases.
Federal and state health officials say there is currently no evidence of a single, multistate cyclospora outbreak linking all cases. Investigations to identify potential clusters and sources of illness are ongoing.
Prevention
To keep from getting sick, it’s essential to thoroughly wash all fresh produce before eating it. Thoroughly washing hands and kitchen counters, and cutting surfaces, is also crucial. However, bleach doesn’t kill the parasite, so other methods of disinfection are necessary.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
