Tyler, Texas - The Food and Drug Administration has identified a possible source for the ongoing outbreak of cyclosporiasis in Texas.
Health officials believe the illness is caused by cilantro grown in the state of Puebla, Mexico. This would not be the first time Puebla has created problems with cyclosporiasis. Similar issues occurred in 2013 and 2014.
Many times, the presence of cyclosporiasis is created by poor, unsanitary conditions. In the case of Puebla, human feces and toilet paper was found in growing fields and around the facilities. Inspectors also said the facilities had a complete lack of toilet and hand washing facilities.
According to the Texas Department of State and Health Services, 205 cases have been reports in 2015, as of July 27. The majority of the Texas outbreak has been in Travis County with 77 reported cases. Three cases have been reported in East Texas: Anderson County (1), Henderson County (1) and Nacogdoches County (1).
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the Cyclospora parasite. The major symptom is watery diarrhea lasting a few days to a few months. Additional symptoms may include loss of appetite, fatigue, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, vomiting and a low fever. People who think they may have a Cyclospora infection should contact their health care provider.
DSHS recommends thoroughly washing fresh produce, but that may not entirely eliminate the risk because Cyclospora can be difficult to wash off. Cooking will kill the parasite.
No recalls have been issued.
Last year, Texas had 200 cases, some of which were associated with cilantro from the Puebla region in Mexico.
Original article