Virginia Reports 10 Cyclosporiasis Cases, Says No Outbreak Detected
Updated
Updated · ARLnow · Jul 15
Virginia Reports 10 Cyclosporiasis Cases, Says No Outbreak Detected
3 articles · Updated · ARLnow · Jul 15
Summary
Ten cyclosporiasis cases were reported in Virginia through June 6, including four in Northern Virginia, and the state health department said current evidence does not indicate an outbreak.
The tally is above Virginia’s year-to-date average of 6.6 cases, but officials said infections typically rise in the spring and summer and are being closely monitored.
Cyclospora has been linked to imported fresh produce and feces-contaminated irrigation water, with past outbreaks tied to raspberries, basil, cilantro, snow peas and salad mixes.
More than 1,500 cases have been diagnosed in Michigan, the recent U.S. epicenter, while similar illness investigations are underway in 30 other states.
Health experts said soap and water—not alcohol hand sanitizer—works against the parasite, and advised thorough produce washing, peeling when possible, and cooking food to 158°F.