A parasite behind a growing outbreak that has sickened people in several states has also been confirmed in Florida.
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According to the Florida Department of Health, 60 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in the state so far this year. Of those cases, 42 were reported in June alone.
That includes five cases in Miami-Dade and another five cases in Broward.
Meanwhile on Monday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said that “available information indicates that lettuce or salad greens may be a potential source of this outbreak. However, other food items cannot be completely ruled out.”
Officials did not identify a specific type of produce, grower, or supplier as the source of the outbreak, and the finding only applies to Michigan, where more than 3,300 cases have been reported.
Cyclosporiasis is a parasite that can cause weeks of diarrhea, though no deaths have been reported.
Other common symptoms include abdominal cramping, bloating, loss of appetite and flu-like symptoms like nausea and fatigue.
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How to prevent infection
Cyclosporiasis is an infection that spreads when people consume water or food contaminated with feces. This can be seen in water that isn’t properly treated or produce that isn’t properly washed.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling produce.
The CDC also recommends that people wash fruits and vegetables under running water before preparing them. They also encourage people to use a clean produce brush on firm fruits and vegetables.
The CDC said produce labeled “prewashed” does not require another wash but that any bruised or damaged areas on your produce should be removed.
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However, cooking the produce is the only sure way to kill the parasite.