LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — The Arkansas Department of Health has confirmed at least one case of Cyclospora in the state.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects small intestines. It can cause severe diarrhea, stomach cramps and nausea.
One Little Rock man said he developed the illness after eating cilantro contaminated with the parasite.
“It was second to none. My body ached. Everything hurt, and I had trouble getting out of bed,” he said.
Dr. Robert Hopkins said one of the biggest mistakes people can make is taking over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication to stop the symptoms.
“You don’t want to keep it in your system,” Hopkins said. “We want to stay away from anti-diarrheal drugs. We do want to push fluids — small amounts frequently. If you keep that down, take a few more sips. We want to support the body rather than, shall we say, put the plug in.”
Health experts recommend drinking plenty of water, replacing electrolytes and eating soft, easy-to-digest foods while recovering.
As cases continue to be reported across the country, experts say Cyclospora infections are most commonly linked to fresh produce contaminated with fecal matter.
“If you didn’t grow it in your own garden and know it’s not contaminated, you should gently wash the surface with running water,” Hopkins said.
Food safety specialist Lida Araghi said proper food handling can help reduce the risk of infection.
“Start by washing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds. Then wash your produce under running water. If possible, use a clean brush to scrub firm vegetables,” Araghi said. “The CDC does not recommend using bleach, vinegar or any other produce-washing solutions.”
Experts say rinsing fruits and vegetables under running water can lower the risk of contamination, but it does not eliminate it completely.
Health officials also recommend avoiding pre-cut or bagged produce if there is an active Cyclospora outbreak or recall involving those products.