We are always told to wash any fruit or vegetables that we buy from the market. Then only proceed to cut and cook it. Proving to why we are told that, an incident in Texas. When officials in The Texas Department of State Health Services. Said in a statement on Monday, that at least 56 people have contracted an intestinal illness caused by a parasite linked to unwashed produce.

Reports of The Cases So Far

So far in Texas, the cyclosporiasis cases have been reported twice this month. Which is reported by the health department in a written release. The cases include two in Dallas County, two in Collin County and one in Tarrant County, reports the Houston Chronicle.

What is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is basically an intestinal parasite. It happens when an individual consumes food or water, which has been contaminated by someone who already has the microscopic parasite.

Symptoms

The symptoms include watery diarrhoea which usually begins two to 14 days after a person has been infected. Other symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, low-grade fever and increased gas.

Previous Reports of Such Cases

Previously from the year 2001 to 2011, the number of cases reported. Was somewhere from single number too low double numbers. However, during the year 2013, there were 351 cases reported in Texas. Which is more than any other state during a year when reports of the illness were up nationwide. Last year Texas had a total of 319 cases.

In the past the cause of the outbreak. Was linked to the consumption of fresh raspberries, cilantro, basil, snow peas and lettuce. However, according to the experts, it too soon to know precisely what is the reason behind this.

Prevention from This Parasite

Just because it’s speculated that these outbreaks happen due to consumption of fruits and vegetables. That doesn’t mean one should avoid eating fruits or vegetables. Expert suggests everyone wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly. However, there is still no guarantee that it will be enough. One should always cook these vegetables which are fresh after washing it thoroughly. The heat will kill all the parasites and bacteria.