Choctaw Nation Public Health Advisory: Multistate Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

DURANT, Okla. — The Choctaw Nation Department of Public Health (CNPH) is advising residents to be aware of an ongoing multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis linked to produce. There is currently no evidence of a significant risk within the Choctaw Nation Reservation. CNPH will continue monitoring the situation to help ensure the risk to public health remains low.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora. People become infected by consuming contaminated food or water. The current outbreak has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce. Produce sold in stores or restaurants may not be currently identified at this time. Symptoms typically begin about one week after exposure. They may include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss. Without treatment, symptoms may last for several weeks or longer.

Individuals can reduce their risk of illness by washing their hands before preparing or eating food, rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before consumption, and following food safety guidance when preparing meals. Anyone who has consumed fresh produce and develops associated symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

“There is currently no indication of a significant risk within the Choctaw Nation Reservation, says Mason Emert, epidemiologist for Choctaw Nation. “We are actively monitoring updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and will notify the public if the level of risk changes.” For the latest information about cyclosporiasis, visit the CDC’s Cyclosporiasis webpage.