EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso Department of Public Health (DPH) continues to monitor the multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak and is providing preventative measures for the public.
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According to the DPH, cyclosporiasis is a parasitic infection that causes symptoms such as severe or prolonged diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, or vomiting. The virus is primarily found in tropical and subtropical areas, and it usually spreads through the contamination of food or water.
To date, there has been only one probable case identified in El Paso this year.
“The Department of Public Health encourages residents to take preventive measures when traveling, especially during the busy summer travel season. Wash your hands frequently, particularly before eating and after using the restroom. Choose food from reputable establishments, avoid food from unregulated street vendors, and avoid drink water from recreational water places such as creeks, lakes, pools, splash pads or other natural water sources,” DPH said.
Additionally, DPH recommends the following preventive meaures:
Wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before consumption.
Cook foods to their recommended internal temperatures.
Avoid drinking untreated water from recreational or natural water sources, including lakes and creeks.
Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing or eating food and after using the restroom.
Avoid swimming or participating in recreational water activities if you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms.
When traveling, use caution when consuming raw produce or food from unregulated street vendors.
If you develop persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, contact your healthcare provider and be sure to share any recent travel history, particularly to areas experiencing outbreaks or where Cyclospora is endemic.
If you care for someone with a weakened immune system, avoid providing care while experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Diagnosis of cyclosporiasis requires healthcare providers to order the appropriate stool test that is not routinely performed. The diarrhea caused by cyclosporiasis often cannot be distinguished from other common gastrointestinal illnesses, such as norovirus or rotavirus.
DPH says laboratory testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Anyone who gains similar symptoms after traveling should contact their healthcare provider and be sure to share recent travel history, as that information can help with diagnosis and treatment.
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