Health officials in Canada are warning the public about the spread of an intestinal illness known as Cyclospora. From May to July, at least 83 individuals have been hospitalized in the country, with at least 74 cases coming from Ontario. These individuals have either recovered, are recovering or are still confined at the hospitals. No deaths in relation to the illness have been reported, however, according to Food Safety News.
An investigation into the cases is still ongoing, but officials say that the likely cause for the illness is due to eating produce like, salad mix, basil, cilantro, berries, mesclun lettuce and snow peas, the news outlet stated. These produce are determined to have not been grown locally.
In the United States, the cases of cyclospora are higher, according to CDC, as 384 have been affected in 26 states. The source of the illness is cilantro from Mexico, as previously reported on HNGN.
Cyclospora comes from a parasite that spreads in contaminated food and water. The bacteria cause an intestinal illness called cyclosporiasis, which has been around for decades. Since the 1990s, small outbreaks have been emerging in mostly tropical or sub-tropical countries.
Infection could happen within the week after ingesting contaminated food. The symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, bloating and gas, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss.
It is a low-risk illness, however, and some may not even have any of the symptoms. To determine infection, a stool sample analysis will be required.
Treatment is administered through antibiotics and patients are recommended to drink plenty of fluids as the diarrhea may result in dehydration.
Without any treatments, cyclosporiasis could last for months and may come and go without any symptoms.
The illness is not contagious, according to CTV News, however, it is still best to wash hands when handling food and after using the toilet. Fruits and vegetables must also be thoroughly washed before cooking. For more preventive measures, cleaning fridges and kitchen counters may help, especially when raw food is constantly being prepared in the kitchen, according to CBC.
