By Courtney Bell, Oklahoma Voice
OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma’s cyclosporiasis cases, the parasitic infection that causes stomach cramping and “explosive diarrhea,” have more than doubled since last week.
The state’s Department of Health has recorded 170 confirmed cases of the intestinal illness, most of which have been reported this month. There have been 12 hospitalizations but no deaths, according to the department. Just over half of the state’s infections have been reported in women, and it has affected people from 9 to 94 years old.
The Centers for Disease Control reports 4,173 confirmed cases across 41 states since May 1. The CDC expects this number to rise as it analyzes over 7,400 additional cases local and state health departments have reported. There have been 308 hospitalizations nationwide from cyclosporiasis, but no deaths as of Monday.
On Friday, the Food and Drug Administration announced a recall of iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, which was served in restaurants like Taco Bell in five states. On Monday, acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas announced this was a false positive, but the agency still recommends against eating the company’s lettuce as it investigates possible causes of the outbreak.
The CDC recommends washing produce thoroughly, and if possible, cooking it to at least 158 degrees to kill the parasite. It advises against drinking untreated water.
Common symptoms of cyclosporiasis include diarrhea, loss of appetite and stomach pain. Treatment includes antibiotics and rehydration.
