EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 El Paso public health officials are investigating seven reported cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, but say they have not found a common source of exposure.<\/p>\n
The City of El Paso Department of Public Health said the seven cases meet reporting criteria as either probable or confirmed. <\/p>\n
Officials said there is no evidence at this time linking the cases to a single event, location or food source.<\/p>\n
As part of the routine investigation, the department determined that five of the individuals reported recent travel to Mexico during the parasite\u2019s incubation period, including three who traveled to Canc\u00fan. <\/p>\n
The remaining two individuals did not report recent travel. <\/p>\n
Public health officials said they will continue investigating each case to determine whether any additional links exist.<\/p>\n
People can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Symptoms may include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue and a low-grade fever. If left untreated, symptoms may last for several weeks and may reappear.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Department of Public Health routinely investigates reportable diseases to identify potential public health concerns,\u201d said City-County Local Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza. \u201cAt this time, we have not identified a common source linking these cases, and there is no indication of a single exposure affecting the community. We encourage residents to practice good food safety, wash fresh produce thoroughly, and contact their healthcare provider if symptoms persist.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Department of Public Health said it will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates if new information becomes available.<\/p>\n
Officials said residents can help reduce their risk by washing fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or preparing them, practicing good hand hygiene especially before handling food and after using the restroom, drinking safe, treated water when traveling, and contacting a health care provider if they experience persistent diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. <\/p>\n
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