COLUMBUS, Ohio —
Ohio health officials are urging residents to take extra precautions when handling fruits and vegetables to help prevent a disease that can cause watery, and sometimes explosive, diarrhea.
As of July 2, the Ohio Department of Health has reported 177 cases of cyclosporiasis in the state this year. Of those, 171 cases occurred in June, with most happening since June 20.
“Fortunately, there have been no deaths in Ohio, as is consistent with our past experiences with this illness,” ODH Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff said in a press release. “Nevertheless, this is a serious illness that can cause dehydration and require people to seek emergency medical care, and it should be taken seriously.”
The disease has hospitalized 28 Ohioans.
Cyclosporiasis is typically not life-threatening. A microscopic parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis, also known as Cyclospora, causes the illness. People generally contract the disease by eating contaminated produce.
ODH and local health departments say they are working with neighboring state and federal partners to investigate the outbreak. This includes conducting interviews and traceback investigations to help identify any potential common exposures.
Watery diarrhea is the most common symptom of cyclosporiasis, while bloating or cramping or loss of appetite can also occur.
If you experience these symptoms, health officials say to contact your healthcare provider.
Antibiotics, along with rest and fluids, can treat the disease.
To prevent cyclosporiasis, health officials say the following steps should be taken:
- Wash your hands with soap and water before and after preparing raw fruit and vegetables
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water. Firm produce, such as melons, should be scrubbed with a clean produce brush.
- Eating or refrigerating cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables promptly.
ODH says the county with the highest number of cases is Lucas County, where Toledo is. Wood County, which neighbors Lucas, has 20 reported cases.
Health officials have reported seven total cases in Greater Cincinnati: five in Hamilton County and one each in Clermont and Warren counties.
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