Georgia DPH urges produce safety precautions to help prevent cyclosporiasis

The Georgia Department of Public Health is urging Georgians to take extra precautions when purchasing, preparing, and consuming fresh fruits and vegetables to help prevent cyclosporiasis, according to an official press release.

DPH said it is not aware of any Georgia-specific outbreaks, clusters, or potential links to the national outbreak at this time. The agency also said investigation into common sources nationally is ongoing.

According to DPH, cyclosporiasis is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, and people can become infected by consuming food or water that contains it. The release said treated water in the United States does not contain Cyclospora.

The agency said domestically acquired cases occur in Georgia every year, but most cases in the state are typically associated with international travel.

DPH said the most common symptom is watery diarrhea and explosive bowel movements. Bloating, cramping, or loss of appetite can also occur, and the illness may last from a few days to more than a month. Symptoms may seem to go away and then return one or more times.

Most people recover on their own, according to the release, though hospitalizations can occur when patients become dehydrated from diarrhea caused by the infection. In extended cases, people are encouraged to check with their healthcare provider.

DPH said cyclosporiasis can be prevented by following basic hygiene practices when handling fresh fruits and vegetables and said these are measures it promotes every day.

The agency's guidance includes washing hands with soap and water before and after handling raw produce; washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking; washing produce even if it is labeled pre-washed; scrubbing firm produce such as melons and cucumbers with a clean produce brush; cutting away damaged or bruised areas; and refrigerating cut, peeled, or cooked produce within two hours.