Cyclospora outbreak confirmed in region
Posted Aug 11, 2015 03:39:31 PM.
Last Updated Aug 11, 2015 03:49:21 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Health officials are warning Canadians about an outbreak of the intestinal illness Cyclospora.
83 cases of the illness have been confirmed across Canada between May 9th and July 18th.
Two cases have already been investigated and confirmed locally by Region of Waterloo Public Health.
The source is unknown but past outbreaks of Cyclospora have been linked to various types of imported fresh produce.
Brenda Miller with Region of Waterloo Public Health told 570 news that everyone should wash their hands before preparing meals and wash any produce to make sure it’s clean.
“Do a double-wash of any produce especially with stuff that has an undulated surface, like melons. The first wash should be to remove surface dirt, and the second to get anything else that is left hiding.”
Miller also said the illness is caused by a parasite that is ingested through food and water, so residents should be cautious when swimming and only swim at authorized beaches.
Cyclospora is generally low-risk and can be cured with antibiotics, but people with weakened immune systems, children and the elderly are at increased risk of developing complications.
Symptoms can include stomach cramps, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
