WAPAKONETA, Ohio (WLIO) - The Ohio Department of Health is urging people to take extra precautions when handling fresh fruits and vegetables this summer.
Cases of cyclosporiasis have increased in Ohio and other states, with several confirmed cases reported in our region. The illness is caused by a parasite found on contaminated produce and can lead to severe diarrhea, bloating, stomach cramps and loss of appetite. Symptoms can last from several days to as long as a month.
Health officials have not identified a common source of the outbreak, but state and federal agencies are working to narrow down where the contaminated produce is coming from.
Local health officials say a few simple steps can help reduce the risk of infection.
"The main prevention method we're putting out there is to make sure that you're washing your hands," said Oliver Fisher, Auglaize County Health Commissioner. "Make sure you're doing at least 20 seconds, scrubbing them with soap. Also, any produce that you might be getting that you're going to consume, make sure that you're washing it thoroughly with cold running water. Cooking it can kill it if its over 160 degrees, but generally just make sure you're washing the produce thoroughly and washing your hands after handling that produce as well."
Fisher says cyclospora is not typically spread from person to person. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their health care provider, since most cases can be treated with an antibiotic.
