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Oklahoma cyclosporiasis cases hit 172, OSDH says
KOCO • • general
Key Points:
- Cyclosporiasis cases in Oklahoma have surged to 172, with 170 confirmed through lab testing and 2 probable cases identified based on symptoms and exposure, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health.
- Among the confirmed cases, 12 people have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported; the median age of patients is 40, with 55% women and 45% men affected.
- The number of cases has more than tripled since last week when 56 cases were reported, and initial data underestimated the total cases at 116.
- Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora, typically contracted from eating unwashed produce, with symptoms including watery diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.
- The infection is seasonal, peaking between May 1 and August 31, and is often linked to contaminated fresh herbs and leafy vegetables found in salad mixes.
