The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries is urging consumers to practice safe food handling as federal and state health officials investigate a multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak.
Alabama has reported 11 cases, according to WSFA-TV political correspondent Jessica Umbro. No deaths have been reported.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Infections are commonly associated with contaminated fresh produce, including leafy greens, herbs, berries and other fruits and vegetables.
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, or ADAI, urged consumers to wash produce and follow established food safety practices while the investigation continues.
“Food safety is our top priority, and safeguarding Alabama’s food supply is a responsibility we take seriously,” Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate said. “One of the best ways consumers can protect themselves is by purchasing fresh, Alabama-grown produce from trusted local farmers.”
ADAI recommends that consumers:
- Wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under clean, running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
- Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
- Wash hands, utensils, cutting boards and food-preparation surfaces before and after handling fresh produce.
- Keep fresh produce separate from raw meat, poultry, seafood and other foods that may cause cross-contamination.
- Monitor food recalls and public health advisories.
The department’s Produce Safety Program works directly with Alabama growers to reduce the risk of foodborne illness through education, on-farm assessments and implementation of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act’s Produce Safety Rule.
The program helps farmers identify and address risks involving agricultural water quality, worker hygiene, equipment sanitation and produce-handling practices. ADAI said the effort helps ensure fruits and vegetables grown in Alabama are handled safely from the field to consumers.
Symptoms of a Cyclospora infection may appear several days to two weeks after exposure. They can include prolonged watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, bloating and weight loss.
People experiencing severe or persistent symptoms should contact a health care provider.
ADAI said it will continue working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alabama Department of Public Health as the investigation continues.
Consumers can find updates and food safety recommendations through the CDC’s Cyclospora surveillance information.
