Health officials are urging residents to take extra precautions when handling fresh produce as cases of cyclosporiasis continue to rise across the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,600 confirmed cases of the parasitic infection have been reported nationwide since May, with cases identified in dozens of states. The South Dakota Department of Health has reported three cases so far this year.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite and is typically spread through contaminated food or water. Health officials say outbreaks are often linked to fresh produce and tend to increase during the spring and summer months.
Symptoms can include severe diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, fatigue and fever. Illness may last for several days or even weeks if left untreated.
To reduce the risk of infection, health experts recommend thoroughly washing hands before preparing food, rinsing fruits and vegetables under running water, and scrubbing firm produce such as melons and cucumbers before serving.
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