GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. — A new parasitic outbreak has made its way into Guilford County by way of a common grocery list item - fresh produce.
According to the Guilford County Health Department, 21 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported this year with most cases being reported during the summer.
The Center for Disease Control defines cyclosporiasis as "an intestinal illness caused by a parasite." The illness is brought on by a parasite called Cyclospora. Infection can happen by ingesting food or water that contains the parasite.
“That parasite is difficult to get rid of. Once the items are contaminated, it's hard to get rid of it," said Tammy Koonce, Communicable Disease Nurse Consultant with the health department. "We're hoping it just passes right through our food chain.”
Guilford County is one of the most impacted counties in the state. Those infected can expect an upset stomach that won't go away for as long as a month.
County representatives said they have not yet been able to pinpoint a particular area that is infected with the parasite or any specific sources. But the health department is hopeful.
It is best practice to always thoroughly wash your produce and your hands before eating.
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