|
 Cases have been reported in counties across Illinois with people
becoming ill starting in mid-May. The initial investigation
indicates a link to consumption of store brand packaged garden
salads from Aldi, Hy-Vee, and Jewel-Osco grocery stores in Illinois.
Although a link has been made to Cyclospora in some Illinois cases,
public health officials continue to investigate other sources, said
IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. If you consumed store brand packaged
garden salads since May and then developed watery diarrhea, please
contact a health care provider about testing and treatment.
The stores are cooperating with the state health departments, the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug
Administration investigation.
People can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated
with feces (stool) that contains the parasite. Cyclospora is not
spread directly from one person to another.
Symptoms usually begin about a week after exposure, although some
people who are infected may not have any noticeable symptoms.
[to top of second column] |
Symptoms may include the following:
Frequent bouts of watery diarrhea (the most common symptom)
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Cramping, bloating, and/or increased gas
Nausea (vomiting is less common)
Fatigue
Low-grade fever
Cyclospora infection can be treated with specific antibiotics. If not treated,
the illness may last for a few days to a month or longer.
Previous cyclosporiasis cases have been linked to various types of imported
fresh produce including raspberries, basil, snow peas, and lettuce.
More information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
website.
[Illinois Office of Communication and
Information] |
