DOH Reports 69 Cases Of Severe Gastrointestinal Illness Statewide

The state Department of Health is reporting there have been 69 cases of cyclosporiasis reported statewide since June 17. That’s up from 47 cases at the end of last week. 

In Parkersburg, Dr. Kane Maiers with UPMC-Go Health Urgent Care has treated several patients and says this illness is often worse than other gastrointestinal ailments and longer lasting. 

“What really makes it different is sometimes it could be more severe, giving you explosive diarrhea, and really, it’ll last longer than a typical GI bug. It can last days to weeks, or even a month or more if untreated,” Maiers said.  

The cyclospora parasite is microscopic and spreads through feces-contaminated water, soil, and produce that gets exposed during the growing or harvesting phase. The DOH recommends general food safety and suggests other preventative measures including:  

• Cutting away damaged or bruised areas of produce 

• Buying whole heads of lettuce;  not pre-washed bags. Remove the outer two to three leaves and wash the remaining leaves under water.  

• Separating and washing all cilantro and basil leaves. 

• Trimming the root end and peeling the outer layer of green onions.  

• Gently rubbing snow peas and other vegetables with your hands or brush as you wash them. 

• Consider avoiding fresh fruits like raspberries with exteriors that are harder to wash. 

Freezing does not eliminate the parasite, but cooking foods to 158 degrees Fahrenheit will kill it. Maiers says the antibiotic Bactrim, available by prescription, is an effective treatment that stops symptoms within a few days for most patients.