The source of a major multi-state outbreak of Cyclosporiasis is now underway.
Cyclosporiasis is a prolonged, produce-borne intestinal illness that causes explosive, watery diarrhea, severe fatigue, and bloating that can last for weeks if untreated.
Health departments are primarily pointing to contaminated fresh produce like lettuce, salad mixes, and fresh herbs.
UPMC's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Don Yealy, tells Marty Griffin on KDKA radio that if you catch the virus, there are things that you can take at home that will help settle your stomach, such as antacids or Pepto-Bismol.
“Outside of that, the key thing is to keep up with the hydration,” said Dr. Yealy. “You have to take in what you normally need, plus what you’re losing below the ‘Mason-Dixon’ line.”
He says in some cases an antibiotic can be prescribed, but those are usually reserved for the more severe cases... or for people who have compromised conditions.
Nearly a dozen cases of the bug have been confirmed in Allegheny County.
