Officials with the Galveston County Health District announced they are investigating an increase in cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness linked tounwashed raw produce. Health officials reported 14 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases in Galveston County with four other potential cases under investigation, according to aMonday news release.
"Awareness and prevention are our best tools," Philip Keiser, local health authority for Galveston County, said in the news release. "If you develop symptoms, seek medical care and practice safe food handling to help protect yourself and others."
Since May 1, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hasreported4,173 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis nationwide and is aware of more than 7,400 additional cases that are not yet laboratory confirmed. No deaths have been reported as the illness, which can cause “explosive” bowel movements, is usually not life-threatening.
RELATED: Health departments for Houston, Harris County report 34 cases of cyclosporiasis
As of Monday, Texas has had 121 lab-confirmed cases since May 1, according to officials with theTexas Department of State Health Services.Officials toldHouston Public Mediathere have been 23 hospitalizations and that a source for the Texas cases, which were domestically acquired, has not yet been identified.
According to the Galveston County Health District, cyclosporiasis, or cyclospora, is typically spread by consuming contaminated fresh produce or contaminated food or water. It is not commonly spread directly from person to person.
Symptoms could include digestive issues, stomach cramps, nausea and low-grade fever. Officials said they usually begin around one week after exposure and can last up to several days or weeks if the illness is not treated.
Officials said they recommend washing fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating, cooking produce items like fresh basil, cilantro and lettuce and washing hands before preparing any food to prevent cyclospora.
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