The South Heartland District Health Department (SHDHD) is reporting 18 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis within its health district, which includes Adams, Clay, Nuckolls and Webster counties.
SHDHD Executive Director Michele Bever said the department has recorded 18 confirmed cases since July 10. Case investigations are continuing, and health officials have interviewed eight community members who contracted the illness. All eight reported acquiring the infection within the United States.
SHDHD is working with state health officials to determine whether the local cases are connected to a larger national outbreak.
Federal investigators have determined that iceberg lettuce sourced from Central Mexico and recalled by Taylor Farms de Mexico is the most likely source of the nation’s largest current Cyclospora outbreak, which has affected 15 states. As of Aug. 5, the outbreak had resulted in 6,358 confirmed cases, 278 hospitalizations and two deaths in the United States.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is also investigating other outbreaks and cases of cyclosporiasis nationwide that are believed to have different sources and are unrelated to the current outbreak.
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora. Outbreaks are commonly associated with contaminated fresh fruits and vegetables. People can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite.
Symptoms typically develop about a week after exposure and may include watery diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, stomach cramps and nausea. Without treatment, symptoms can persist for weeks or longer and may come and go.
Cyclosporiasis does not typically spread directly from person to person.
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