The B.C. Centre for Disease Control is reporting 43 confirmed cases of a gastrointestinal illness so far this year, while also reminding the public to wash produce thoroughly and be aware when travelling.
Cyclospora is a gastrointestinal illness with common symptoms of diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and occasionally fever. Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe illness. The BCCDC said that each spring and summer, Canada sees an increase in non-travel related Cyclospora illnesses, with infections known to occur when eating contaminated, imported raw produce, especially leafy greens, fresh herbs and berries. Locally grown produce is not known to carry the parasite.
The BCCDC is reminding people to reduce the risk of Cyclospora and other gastrointestinal infections by washing hands thoroughly before handling food, washing fruits and vegetables as thoroughly as possible before eating them, cooking produce when possible and not drinking untreated surface water from streams, rivers, lakes, ponds or shallow wells.