Over 1,400 Cases Of Cyclospora In Illinois As Outbreak Continues

Cases of cyclospora in Illinois have increased to over 1,400 confirmed and probable cases, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

On Tuesday, IDPH said there are 1,437 confirmed and probable cases of cyclospora in Illinois.

No deaths have been reported in Illinois, however, there have been 69 hospitalizations.

In an update on Aug. 13, the CDC said there are 9,481 illnesses reported from 17 states. Illnesses linked to this outbreak began on June 14, and there have been 398 hospitalizations reported.

Two deaths have been reported, both in Michigan, according to the CDC.

"The true number of sick people in this multistate outbreak is likely higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses," the CDC said in its Aug. 13 update.

Cyclosporiasis symptoms typically begin about a week after infection and most commonly include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea and fatigue. Without treatment, symptoms may last a month or longer and can disappear before returning.

In Illinois, McHenry County officials said last week they were investigating a cluster of illnesses, as cases had increased to 65. The investigation remains active, and officials have not identified a common source among the cases.

Health officials continue to recommend that residents rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water and gently scrub or wipe produce before eating, cutting or cooking. Firm produce such as melons and cucumbers should be scrubbed with a clean produce brush.

When appropriate, cooking produce to an internal temperature of 158 degrees can be more effective than washing alone because it inactivates Cyclospora.