On Wednesday, the Louisiana Department of Health reported that 23 cases, including one hospitalization, are being investigated in connection to cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that can cause weeks of watery diarrhea.<\/p>\n
“Because many of these cases are still under investigation, this number is preliminary and subject to change,” a representative from LDH said. “For comparison, the state has averaged 20 reported cases over the same time period during the past five years.”<\/p>\n
Louisiana is one of 29 states investigating outbreaks of the infection. No deaths have been reported and the source of the cyclospora infections hasn\u2019t been identified.<\/p>\n
Cases of cyclosporiasis typically spike in the summer months, with historically active outbreaks in Louisiana between June and August. In the U.S., the cyclosporiasis season is considered May 1 through August 31, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.<\/p>\n
Over the last 20 years, there have been between 1 to 101 cases reported annually in Louisiana, with 73 cases reported in 2023.<\/p>\n
Nationally, there have been record-breaking spikes in both Michigan and Ohio. Although Michigan state officials first announced the outbreak last week, they were only aware of 170 cases.<\/p>\n
On Wednesday, Michigan reported 992 cases, including 40 hospitalizations. Ohio reported over 177 cases, with 28 hospitalizations, shortly after.<\/p>\n
What is cyclospora?<\/p>\n
Cyclospora is a microscopic, spherical parasite that commonly causes watery diarrhea \u201cwith frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements,\u201d according to the CDC. The illness, called cyclosporiasis, is not usually life-threatening and is typically treated with antibiotics.<\/p>\n
The heat-loving parasite infects the bowels and spreads through feces. In the past, people have been infected by consuming fruits or vegetables that were exposed to feces-contaminated irrigation water.<\/p>\n
The following foods have been specifically linked to previous cyclospora outbreaks in the United States and Canada:<\/p>\n
Bagged salad mixes and kits (pre-cut lettuce blends with romaine, iceberg, red cabbage, carrots)<\/p>\n
Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves)<\/p>\n
Fresh basil<\/p>\n
Raspberries<\/p>\n
Snow peas<\/p>\n
Green onions (scallions)<\/p>\n
People with diarrhea that hasn\u2019t resolved on its own within a few days should see a health provider and discuss the possibility of cyclospora, officials say.<\/p>\n
Investigations can take months to determine where contaminated food came from and sometimes fail to find a clear source of the parasitic infection.<\/p>\n
The best way to prevent infection with a parasite is to avoid food or water that may have been contaminated.<\/p>\n
Fresh produce should be thoroughly washed before being eaten. But be aware that cyclospora can really stick to some foods, so washing may not eliminate the risk of infection.<\/p>\n
They also say to cook vegetables when possible.<\/p>\n
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