Allegheny County health officials are investigating several cases of a rare parasitic intestinal illness.
The Allegheny County Health Department says it has confirmed 11 cases of Cyclosporiasis and is working with state and federal health officials to determine whether they're connected.
The illness is caused by the parasite Cyclospora and is typically linked to contaminated food or water, not person-to-person spread.
Symptoms include severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss, usually developing about a week after exposure.
If you develop symptoms, health officials say to contact your healthcare provider.
The illness requires special testing to diagnose and is treated with a prescription antibiotic.
The Allegheny County Health Department released the following tips:
Key prevention steps for cyclospora include:
- Wash: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not kill or effectively remove the parasite Cyclospora. Wash hands with soap and warm water before and after handling or preparing fruits and vegetables. Wash and sanitize cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and countertops between preparation of fruits and vegetables.
- Prepare: Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking. Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush. Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating.
- Store: Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible, or within 2 hours.
- Cook: Cook your food when you can. Heating food to 158°F or higher kills Cyclospora.
