Washington County Public Health has identified eight cases of cyclosporiasis amid a large outbreak of the gastrointestinal illness.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite that can be spread through contaminated food or water. Common symptoms include frequent watery diarrhea, appetite loss, nausea, fatigue, bloating and weight loss. Symptoms generally begin about one week after exposure but can take as long as two weeks to appear.
Washington County Public Health Director of Nursing Karri Fisher recommends avoiding bagged salads and salad kits during the outbreak. Those who are pregnant, older or immunocompromised should also consider choosing fruits and vegetables that can be peeled or cooked.
Whole heads of lettuce may present less risk when the outside leaves are removed and the lettuce is thoroughly washed. However, washing alone may not completely remove the parasite. Cooking food to an internal temperature of 158 degrees is known to kill it.
Iowa Health and Human Services had recorded 300 laboratory-confirmed Cyclospora infections in 55 counties as of August 13. Iowa is included in a multistate outbreak linked to processed iceberg lettuce.
People experiencing persistent vomiting, diarrhea several times per day or other serious symptoms should contact a healthcare provider.