Iowa health officials say ‘fresh vegetables, not fruit’ possible source of Cyclospora outbreak
The Iowa Department of Public Health, CDC and local public health agencies are investigating an outbreak of an intestinal illness caused by Cyclospora (a rare parasite). As of July 12, 45 cases of Cyclospora infections have been reported to IDPH; almost all have been identified through testing at the State Hygienic Lab (SHL).
The case count is up from 39 reported the day prior.
Health officials say that although the source of this outbreak is unknown at this time, progress is being made. They go on to say that Cyclospora illness is typically traced to consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables contaminated with the parasite; this investigation currently indicates fresh vegetables, not fruit, may be the source of illness.
The 45 cases have been reported from the following counties: Linn County – 21 cases, Fayette County – 3 cases, Polk County – 3 cases, O’Brien County – 3 cases, Dallas County – 2 cases, Mills County – 2 cases, Webster County – 2 cases, Des Moines County – 2 cases, Benton County – 1 case, Black Hawk County – 1 case, Buchanan – 1 case, Johnson County – 1 case, Pottawattamie County – 1 case, Van Buren County – 1 case and Woodbury – 1 case.
Washing fresh produce is recommended to help prevent this parasitic infection; however, it can be very difficult to wash Cyclospora off all types of produce, health officials note.
Cyclosporiasis causes a watery diarrhea that lasts an average of 57 days if untreated. Other symptoms include: fatigue (severe tiredness), loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches and low-grade fever.
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