The number of cases in the Cyclospora outbreak in British Columbia and Ontario has nearly doubled since the last report two weeks ago.

Cyclospora/CDC
Cyclospora/CDC

Since July 14, 47 additional cases were reported. A total of 104 cases have been reported in two provinces: British Columbia (6) and Ontario (98).

The source of the outbreak has not been identified. To date, no multi-jurisdictional outbreaks of Cyclospora have been linked to produce grown in Canada.

The most common way that Cyclospora is spread is by eating food or drinking water that contains the Cyclospora parasite.

Cyclospora is not common on food and is not in drinking water in Canada.

However, food can be a source of cyclosporiasis for Canadians when imported from countries where Cyclospora is common. Foods imported to Canada that have been linked to the Cyclospora parasite include:

  • basil
  • cilantro
  • raspberries
  • blackberries
  • mesclun lettuce
  • snow and snap peas
  • pre-packaged salad mix

Related: Coyote tapeworm in Alberta: 5th human case reported

Symptoms of cyclosporiasis may include:

  • watery diarrhea (this is the most common symptom)
  • abdominal bloating and gas
  • fatigue (tiredness)
  • stomach cramps
  • loss of appetite
  • weight loss
  • mild fever
  • nausea

When you eat or drink contaminated food or water, it may take 7 to 14 days for symptoms to appear.

If left untreated, you may have the symptoms for a few days up to a few months. Most people have symptoms for 6 to 7 weeks. Sometimes, symptoms may go away and then return.

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