Summary
The Illinois Department of Public Health has reported a higher-than-average number of cyclosporiasis cases this year. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a tiny parasite. Health officials are investigating the source of the infections and reminding people to wash fresh produce carefully.
Main Impact
The state health department says the number of cyclosporiasis cases in Illinois is above what is normally seen for this time of year. This means more people than usual are getting sick with diarrhea and other stomach problems. Health officials are working to find out what food or water might be causing the outbreak. They are also asking doctors to test patients with long-lasting diarrhea for this parasite.
Key Details
What Happened
The Illinois Department of Public Health issued a notice about the increase in cyclosporiasis cases. The illness is caused by a parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. People usually get it by eating food or drinking water that has the parasite in it. The most common foods linked to this illness are fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, especially those imported from countries where the parasite is common.
Important Numbers and Facts
The health department did not give an exact number of cases but said the count is "higher-than-average" compared to previous years. Cyclosporiasis cases often increase in the spring and summer months. Symptoms usually start about a week after someone eats contaminated food. The main symptoms are watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, and tiredness. The illness can last from a few days to more than a month if not treated.
Background and Context
Cyclosporiasis is not a new illness, but it is not very common in the United States. Most outbreaks in the U.S. are linked to imported fresh produce. In the past, outbreaks have been tied to cilantro, raspberries, basil, and salad mixes. The parasite is too small to see without a microscope. It cannot be killed by washing produce alone, but washing can help remove some of the contamination. Cooking food kills the parasite.
Public or Industry Reaction
Health officials are advising the public to wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating. They also recommend cooking food when possible. Doctors have been told to consider cyclosporiasis when patients have diarrhea that lasts more than a few days, especially if the patient has eaten imported fresh produce. The health department has not named any specific food or store linked to the current cases.
What This Means Going Forward
Health investigators will continue to interview sick people to find common foods they ate. They will also work with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to track the source. If a specific food is found, a recall or public warning may be issued. People who have symptoms should see a doctor. The illness can be treated with antibiotics. To avoid getting sick, people should wash produce, keep raw foods separate from cooked foods, and avoid eating raw or undercooked food from areas with poor sanitation.
Final Take
The higher number of cyclosporiasis cases in Illinois is a reminder that foodborne illnesses can still happen even with modern food safety systems. Washing fresh produce and cooking food are simple steps that can lower the risk. Anyone with long-lasting diarrhea should see a doctor and mention the possibility of cyclosporiasis. Health officials are working to find the source and stop the outbreak.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by a tiny parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. It causes watery diarrhea and other stomach problems. People get it by eating food or drinking water that has the parasite in it.
How can I prevent cyclosporiasis?
Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating. Cook food when possible. Avoid eating raw or undercooked food from places where sanitation is poor. Keep raw foods separate from cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if you have watery diarrhea that lasts more than a few days, especially if you also have stomach cramps, nausea, weight loss, or tiredness. Tell your doctor if you have eaten imported fresh produce recently. Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics.
