IDPH Investigating Increase In Foodborne Illnesses

Share

Cyclosporiasis cases reported across Illinois

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has received confirmation of approximately 23 cases that appear to be linked to a multi-state outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic Cyclospora parasite.  Cases have been reported in counties across Illinois with people becoming ill starting in mid-May.  The initial investigation indicates a link to consumption of store brand packaged garden salads from Aldi, Hy-Vee, and Jewel-Osco grocery stores in Illinois.

“Although a link has been made to Cyclospora in some Illinois cases, public health officials continue to investigate other sources,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike.  “If you consumed store brand packaged garden salads since May and then developed watery diarrhea, please contact a health care provider about testing and treatment.”

The stores are cooperating with the state health departments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug Administration investigation.

People can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with feces (stool) that contains the parasite.  Cyclospora is not spread directly from one person to another.

Symptoms usually begin about a week after exposure, although some people who are infected may not have any noticeable symptoms.  Symptoms may include the following:

• Frequent bouts of watery diarrhea (the most common symptom)
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Cramping, bloating, and/or increased gas
• Nausea (vomiting is less common)
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever

Cyclospora infection can be treated with specific antibiotics.  If not treated, the illness may last for a few days to a month or longer. 

Previous cyclosporiasis cases have been linked to various types of imported fresh produce including raspberries, basil, snow peas, and lettuce. 

More information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

***Report Courtesy of the Illinois Department of Public Health***

Spread the word

Trending Now

Featured News Podcasts

Subscribe to our Community Newsletter

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Prairie Communications, 55 Public Square, Monmouth, IL, 61462, https://977wmoi.com/. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

Choose a Category

Continue Reading

Monmouth Residents Escape Fire Unharmed

On Wednesday, March 27th at 6:01 PM, the Monmouth Fire Department was dispatched to a possible structure fire at 301 South B Street in Monmouth. Information from the Warren County

Watch Out for Scams this Tax Season!

As another tax season has arrived, Monmouth Police Department Investigator Josh Kramer reminds taxpayers to be on the lookout for those IRS scam letters: “They will be claiming that you

2024 FS Spring Ag Roundtable Day 2

The second round of the 2024 FS Spring Ag Roundtables kicked off Wednesday morning with ag leaders across the state of Illinois. Listen to remarks from Krista Swanson, Evan Hultine, Grant Strom,