State and federal health officials are reporting a significant increase in cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora.
As of July 16, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) had reported 277 confirmed and probable cases in Illinois. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had received reports of 1,645 cases since May 1, with cases identified in 34 states.
Cyclospora can spread when a person consumes food or water contaminated with the parasite. It is often associated with fresh produce and is unlikely to spread directly from one person to another. However, people of all ages can become infected.
Symptoms generally appear about a week after exposure and may include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Anyone experiencing possible symptoms should contact a health care provider.
To reduce the risk of infection, the IDPH recommends:
- Washing hands with soap and water before and after preparing fresh produce.
- Washing produce thoroughly before eating.
- Scrubbing firm produce, such as melons, with a clean produce brush.
- Removing bruised or damaged portions before eating or preparing produce.
- Refrigerating cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours.
For more information about Cyclospora, its symptoms, and prevention, visit the IDPH website.