17 cases of stomach-sickening cyclosporiasis reported in Nassau County
Outbreaks have been linked to imported produce such as cilantro, basil, salad mixes, snow peas and raspberries.
There have been 17 reported cases of cyclosporiasis in Nassau County so far this year, including 11 cases in June alone, according to the Nassau County Department of Health.
By comparison, the county recorded 10 cases during all of last year.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora and is typically contracted through contaminated food or water.
Outbreaks have been linked to imported produce such as cilantro, basil, salad mixes, snow peas and raspberries.
Symptoms can include watery diarrhea that may last a month or longer, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, weight loss, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.
To help prevent infection, health officials recommend washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw fruits and vegetables, and carefully washing produce before eating it.
Heating food to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit can also kill the parasite.
While cyclosporiasis cases occur year-round, the Nassau County Department of Health noted that infections tend to increase during the spring and summer months.
The New York State Department of Health released the following statement related to the illness:
“The New York State Department of Health takes the spread of diseases seriously and works with local health departments to identify potential outbreaks and provide guidance on prevention and treatment. While cyclosporiasis is not likely to spread directly from one person to another, and is generally not life-threatening as many people with healthy immune systems recover without treatment, the Department encourages all New Yorkers to be aware of the best practices to prevent Cyclospora and other infections common in the summer months.”
News 12 has reached out for information on Suffolk County's cyclosporiasis numbers and is waiting to hear back.
