These Fruits, Vegetables May Be Linked To NJ's Growing Parasite Outbreak

The number of cyclosporiasis cases in New Jersey is rising, with between 1 and 10 cases reported as of July 1, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The parasitic intestinal infection has been reported in 17 states, including Connecticut, according to the CDC.

Brittany Schaefer, a spokesperson for the state health department, said it conducts interviews to learn more about patients’ illness and possible exposures.

State and federal health officials have not yet identified any foods responsible for the recent cases. Investigations to identify the sources of recent illnesses in the U.S. are ongoing.

As of June 16, there had been 145 cases reported by people in the U.S., and those people had not reported any travel in the two weeks prior.

According to the CDC, past U.S. outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been linked to different types of imported fresh produce, including basil, cilantro, lettuce, raspberries and snow peas.

“In the U.S., outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have historically been linked to various types of fresh produce,” Schaefer said.

People can get infected by consuming food or water with the parasite. Illness typically begins within a week of exposure.

Symptoms usually begin about a week after someone consumes contaminated food or water, though they can appear as soon as two days or more than two weeks later. Watery diarrhea is the most common symptom.

Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea and fatigue. Less common symptoms include vomiting, body aches, headache, low-grade fever and other flu-like symptoms.

Without treatment, symptoms can last from a few days to a month or longer, and diarrhea may go away and return. The CDC advises people with symptoms to see a healthcare provider, who can test for and treat cyclosporiasis.

Read more: Parasite Outbreak Sickens People In 17 States, Including NJ