Joplin health officials recommend continued precautions against cyclosporiasis

(From the Joplin Health Department)

With Cyclosporiasis cases on the rise in Missouri, local health officials are continuing to monitor numbers within the City of Joplin and provide guidance to residents.

The origins and sources of the outbreak – which was first reported in mid-July – are still being fully investigated, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have publicized that iceberg lettuce sourced from Central Mexico and sold under the Taylor Farms de Mexico, has been recalled. (This company supplies lettuce to brands including “Marketside.”) Follow the guidance from CDC/FDA for updates on affected foods.

The Joplin Health Department has worked with grocery stores within the city limits to ensure this product has been pulled from shelves. In total, the CDC has reported nearly 7,000 cases in 15 states (6 new states as of yesterday). With new cases being reported in Joplin each week, health officials are reminding residents of some simple steps they can take to prevent contracting and spreading Cyclospora.

Wash your hands and any fresh produce thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.

Cooking can kill the parasite. Since washing alone cannot guarantee Cyclospora removal, you can cook produce to a temperature of at least 158 °F (70°C).

Learn which foods are more likely to contain the parasite Cyclospora and ways to prevent getting cyclosporiasis at https://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis/prevention/index.html.

Symptoms of cyclosporiasis include watery diarrhea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

Symptoms usually begin about one week after becoming infected (ranging from 2 days to 2 weeks or more).

Without treatment, symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a month or longer.

If you have symptoms, stay well-hydrated.

If you suspect you have contracted Cyclosporiasis, consult with your doctor on specific testing and treatment.

For more information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis/index.html. To contact the Joplin Health Department, call 417-623-6122.