The Texas Department of State Health Services said Monday that at least 56 people have contracted cyclosporiasis an intestinal illness caused by a parasite linked to unwashed produce.
State health officials said they are investigating to determine if there is a common source for the recent outbreak.
The cyclosporiasis cases in Texas have been reported in the last two months, the health department said in a written release. The cases include two in Dallas County, two in Collin County and one in Tarrant County, reports the Houston Chronicle.
The cyclospora intestinal parasite contracted by consuming food, water that contaminated by someone who already has the microscopic parasite.
Cyclospora Symptoms
The most common of which is watery diarrhea. Usually begin two to 14 days after a person has infected. Other symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, low-grade fever and increased gas.
The number of cyclosporiasis cases in Texas was in the single to low double digits, according to state data. More than any other state during a year when reports of the illness were up nationwide. Last year, Texas had 319 cyclosporiasis cases.
Moreover, previous outbreaks linked to the consumption of fresh raspberries, cilantro, basil, snow peas and lettuce. Foods are causing the most recent outbreak or just how many people affected this year.
