Updated

Updated · WTVG · Jul 8

Ohio Reports 177 Cyclosporiasis Cases With 28 Hospitalizations as Lucas County Leads at 30

Updated

Updated · WTVG · Jul 8

Ohio Reports 177 Cyclosporiasis Cases With 28 Hospitalizations as Lucas County Leads at 30

Q: A parasite outbreak is linked to fresh produce. Is washing your fruits and vegetables enough to stay safe?

No. Washing fruits and vegetables helps reduce risk, but it is not enough to reliably remove *Cyclospora* and prevent cyclosporiasis during an outbreak. Health officials say the parasite can cling to tiny crevices and rough surfaces on produce, especially items like raspberries, herbs and leafy greens. Routine rinsing under water may lower contamination, but it does not remove all oocysts, and common produce sanitizers such as chlorine or iodine are generally not effective against *Cyclospora*. That is why outbreaks are often tied to fresh produce even when consumers wash it. The safest step is cooking produce to at least 158°F (70°C), which kills the parasite. That is not practical for every fruit or vegetable, so experts still advise thorough washing under running water, scrubbing firm produce with a clean brush, separating leaves on herbs and greens, trimming damaged areas, and washing hands, knives, boards and counters before and after food prep. These steps reduce risk but do not guarantee safety. This matters in Ohio, where 177 cases and 28 hospitalizations had been reported by July 2, with investigators still trying to identify the source. Because contamination often happens earlier in the supply chain, consumers cannot fully wash away the danger at home. Anyone with ongoing watery diarrhea, cramping, bloating or loss of appetite should contact a healthcare provider. Diagnosis usually requires a special stool test, and the illness can be treated with antibiotics.

3 articles · Updated · WTVG · Jul 8

177 cyclosporiasis cases have been recorded in Ohio this year as of July 2, including 171 reported in the past month and mostly since June 20.
28 hospitalizations have been tied to the outbreak, with Lucas County reporting 30 cases and neighboring Wood County 20, making the northwest region the state's biggest cluster.
Ohio health officials said no deaths have been reported, but warned the gastrointestinal illness can cause dehydration and send patients to emergency care; watery diarrhea is the most common symptom.
Ohio and local health departments are investigating with neighboring states and federal partners as officials urge extra care when handling fruits and vegetables; Michigan has reported nearly 700 cases.