texas

Texas Sees Increase in Cyclospora Cases

A rise of Texas cyclosporiasis cases has officials warning shoppers to use caution when preparing produce in the kitchen.

The source of the parasite remains unknown, but cyclospora is typically found on imported fresh produce like berries and leafy greens.

The Austin American-Statesman reports that the state's count is at 54 cases, with Travis County having the highest number of cases at 23.

The alert said reports of the illness have been high in Texas each of the past three summers, but Texas Department of State Health Services Spokeswoman Carrie Williams said a surge like the one over the last week is unusual.

Williams said there were no known hospitalizations or deaths related to the illness.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness that is caused by the microscopic parasite cyclospora cayetanensis and causes prolonged diarrheal distress. People can become infected with cyclospora by eating or drinking food or water contaminated with the parasite.

The outbreak comes months after a similar outbreak was blamed on fresh cilantro from Mexico.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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