Ohio sees sharp rise in cyclosporiasis cases

The Summit County Department of Health said it is reviewing 224 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal infection, marking a near ten-fold increase over the state’s reported figures for the area. Statewide, officials estimate about 1,300 cases, but local health leaders believe the true count is higher due to reporting delays and unreported mild illnesses.

"Definitely lots of cases. When all is said and done, we will be able to sort through the number and the data so we can get a clearer picture of what is going on, but things are very rapidly evolving," said Dr. Erika Sobolewski, Summit County health director.

Dr. Sobolewski noted that the outbreak initially concentrated in northwestern Ohio near the Michigan border before spreading to other regions. Typically, the county sees one or two cases each year, usually linked to travel in tropical areas where the parasite is more common.

The parasite is associated with contaminated produce such as lettuce and other salad greens, and symptoms can appear up to two weeks after exposure, complicating source identification. Health officials advise thorough washing of raw vegetables and fruits, emphasizing proper hand hygiene.

"It comes back to basic public health tenets. You are washing your hands, soap and water and thoroughly washing your hands. Not just the quick rinse under the sink and the same with your fresh fruits and vegetables. Really letting that water and the power of the faucet go over those vegetables and washing those good," Dr. Sobolewski added.

The department also warned that many infections may go unreported because individuals with mild symptoms often stay home and self-treat.

"We absolutely believe the numbers are much larger than what we are reporting. People are sick for a few days. They called off work, they didn’t go see a doctor, they were just waiting for things to resolve and those never got reported," Dr. Sobolewski said.