New York reports 273 cyclosporiasis cases in city, 121 statewide since May
New York City health officials say 273 cases of cyclosporiasis have been confirmed since May 1, with an additional 121 cases reported elsewhere in the state, a level consistent with seasonal trends.
The New York State Department of Health reported 273 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in New York City and 121 cases in the rest of the state for the period from May 1 through July 9. The figures, while higher than typical monthly counts, align with the seasonal rise in infections that often occurs in spring and summer.
State officials said the disease, caused by ingesting food or drink contaminated with Cyclospora parasites, usually does not spread directly from person to person and is not typically life-threatening for individuals with healthy immune systems. > "The New York State Department of Health takes the spread of diseases seriously and works with local health departments to identify potential outbreaks and provide guidance on prevention and treatment," the department said in a statement.
Health authorities are collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and local agencies to investigate possible sources, though no single nationwide outbreak has been identified. Past U.S. incidents have been linked to imported fresh produce such as cilantro, salad mixes, basil, snow peas and raspberries.
Symptoms include diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, weight loss, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Officials advise washing hands with soap and water before and after handling raw produce, rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables under running water, and cooking food to at least 158 °F (70 °C) to kill the parasite.