Hamilton County reports 17 Cyclospora cases as Ohio outbreak climbs

Hamilton County, Ohio, announced Thursday that it has identified 17 cases of cyclosporiasis, an increase from 16 reported two days earlier. The update showed confirmed cases rising to 12, probable cases unchanged, and suspected cases decreasing to four. Statewide, Ohio health authorities have recorded 366 infections with 46 hospitalizations and no deaths.

The county's public health department listed a range of symptoms among patients, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in stool, shortness of breath, cough, nausea, headache, fever and fatigue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a total of 1,645 Cyclospora cases across the United States, with 141 hospitalizations.

"Watery diarrhea is the most common symptom of cyclosporiasis, while bloating, cramping or loss of appetite can also occur," CDC guidance notes.

Health officials advise anyone experiencing these symptoms to contact a healthcare provider. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, rest and fluid intake. Preventive measures recommended include washing hands before and after handling raw produce, rinsing fruits and vegetables under running water, scrubbing firm produce such as melons with a clean brush, and promptly refrigerating cut or cooked produce.

Ohio officials have not identified a specific source for the current outbreak.