The number of closed or reported cases of cyclosporiasis, a diarrhea-inducing intestinal illness, in Dallas County has about doubled since last week.
Dr. Philip Huang, the Dallas County public health director, said the county has confirmed and closed nine reported cases of cyclosporiasis as of July 13, with 10 cases under investigation. Previously, the county was investigating eight to 10 potential cases of cyclosporiasis.
Texas is one of 31 states that are reporting cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The illness is commonly contracted after eating food or drinking liquids contaminated with feces containing the parasite, but it can also be acquired by swimming in contaminated water
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Where have cyclosporiasis cases been reported?
At least 843 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in the U.S. since May 1, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC is also aware of more than 1,500 cases that are under investigation, according to its website
Michigan has seen at least 2,640 cases of cyclosporiasis, according to the state’s department of health and human services. The CDC’s website says that states are likely to report higher case counts of cyclosporiasis than what is reflected in CDC data and the agency is working closely with states to update numbers as additional cases are confirmed.
Theinvestigation, according to the CDC
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What are symptoms of cyclosporiasis?
Symptoms of cyclosporiasis can vary, but the most common symptom includes watery diarrhea, according to the CDC.
Other symptoms can include loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating and nausea.
Symptoms can start two days to two weeks after consuming food or drinking water containing cyclospora, according to the CDC. Some symptoms, such as diarrhea, may go away and then return, while others may continue after the gastrointestinal symptoms have stopped
Without antibiotic treatment, cyclosporiasis symptoms can last up to a month or longer.
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How can I avoid getting sick from cyclosporiasis?
Prior foodborne outbreaks of cyclosporiasis in the U.S. have been linked to various types of fresh fruits and vegetables
The parasite can be introduced to fresh produceSince many fruits and vegetables can be eaten raw, they can be harder to sanitize before eating, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
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While rinsing or washing fresh produce is still encouraged to remove dirt or other contaminants, the CDC says washing alone is unlikely to remove cyclospora. However, heating fresh produce and vegetables to at least 158 degrees can kill the parasite
Related: What foods should I avoid to protect myself from diarrhea-causing parasite?
