NCDHHS reports 718 cyclosporiasis cases, launches public dashboard
State health officials say no confirmed source has been identified, though parsley and cilantro have been commonly reported in patient interviews.
North Carolina health officials have launched a public dashboard to track cyclosporiasis cases after reporting 718 cases and 24 hospitalizations since May 1.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services announced the updated case count July 28 and said the new Cyclosporiasis Cases and Outbreaks Dashboard will be updated on Tuesdays. The illness is caused by a parasite and is often linked to contaminated fresh produce.
NCDHHS said a confirmed source has not been identified. Current information from patient interviews indicates parsley and cilantro have been commonly reported among cases, but the department said many people who became sick did not report eating either food. That suggests there could be multiple sources of exposure.
The department said it is working with local, state and federal partners to gather information and identify possible sources. If an ingredient or food product is recalled, local health departments work with establishments to make sure the item is no longer used.
State health officials said washing fresh fruits and vegetables may remove some of the parasite but does not guarantee removal. Cooking foods to 165 degrees can prevent cyclosporiasis, according to NCDHHS.
Symptoms may not appear in every case, but most people who become sick usually develop symptoms about a week after exposure. NCDHHS said people should contact a health care provider if they have severe or persistent diarrhea or believe they may have cyclosporiasis. The illness can be treated with antibiotics, and the department urged people who are sick to prevent dehydration by drinking water or drinks with electrolytes.
The dashboard gives state officials a regular public reporting tool as the investigation continues.
Editor’s note: This article was drafted with the assistance of artificial intelligence and was reviewed and fact-checked by a member of the NC Political News editorial team before publication.
