The Iowa Department of Health has updated its investigation into the Cyclospora parasite outbreak in that state. As of July 15, 2013, 71 people in Iowa have been sickened. Almost all cases have been identified through testing at the State Hygienic Lab.
The case count by county is as follows: Linn (30), Polk (5), Fayette (3), O’Brien (3), Dallas (3), Buchanan (3), Black Hawk (3), Webster (3), Mills (2), Des Moines (2), Boone (3), Benton (1), Keokuk (1), Monona (1), Butler (1), Winneshiek (1), Johnson (1), Pottawattamie (1), Van Buren (1), Story (1), Cedar (1), Woodbury (1). IDPH is working with local public health agencies to interview those who are sick to find out if there is a common food exposure that would indicate the source of the parasite.
Cyclospora is a parasite that has caused outbreaks in the past through fresh fruits and vegetables. Iowa public health officials believe that fresh vegetables, not fruit, may be the agent in this outbreak, through information gathered at interviews with patients.
Symptoms of cyclospora include watery diarrhea, which can last for 2 months if untreated, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, low-grade fever, and muscle aches. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see your health care provider and ask about a stool test. A very specific test needs to be conducted to diagnose a Cyclospora infection. This infection is reportable to public health officials. Treatment with antibiotics is prescribed.
*cramps
Just wanted you to know and thank-you for this very valuable service.
Tami, can I hire you as a proofreader?