Little Rock, Arkansas – Health officials in Arkansas are warning residents about a significant increase in cyclospora infections after the number of reported cases more than doubled in just one week. The Arkansas Department of Health announced Friday that 79 cases of cyclosporiasis have now been identified across the state, marking a continued rise during the summer months.
The latest numbers show a rapid increase compared with earlier reports. As of Friday, July 24, health officials confirmed 79 cases, which is 43 more than the total reported on Monday, July 21. The number is also 69 higher than the amount recorded on July 10, showing how quickly the illness has spread in recent weeks.
Benton County currently has the highest number of confirmed cases in Arkansas, accounting for 50 infections. Other counties have reported smaller numbers, with fewer than 10 cases each. Those counties include Boone, Carroll, Crawford, Faulkner, Marion, Miller, Pulaski, Saline, Sebastian, Van Buren, and Washington.
Although cyclospora infections are more common during the spring and summer seasons, state health officials said the number of cases reported in Arkansas this year is higher than what has been seen in previous years. Officials have been investigating the increase and said some cases are connected to a larger outbreak affecting multiple states.
“After an investigation, it was determined that the increase in cases in Arkansas is, in part, associated with the ongoing multistate outbreak,” the ADH said.
The outbreak is also being investigated by federal health officials. Additional details about the investigation are available through the Food and Drug Administration’s review of the multistate cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce.
Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause illness when people consume food or water contaminated with feces. The infection does not usually appear immediately. According to health officials, symptoms may develop one to two weeks after exposure.
Common symptoms include watery diarrhea, which can sometimes involve frequent and sudden bowel movements. People who become infected may also experience other digestive issues, although symptoms can vary from person to person.
Health officials are reminding residents that simple food safety steps can help reduce the risk of infection. The Arkansas Department of Health recommends avoiding food or water that could be contaminated and following proper food handling practices when preparing and storing meals.
Read also: Highway 178 closure scheduled across Bull Shoals Dam for routine maintenance work
Residents are also encouraged to wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling raw fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly under running water before they are eaten, cut, or cooked. Any damaged or bruised areas on produce should be removed before preparation.
Another important step is proper storage. Cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables should be placed in the refrigerator within two hours to help prevent contamination and bacterial growth.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and are encouraging anyone who develops symptoms consistent with cyclospora infection to seek medical advice. More information about prevention, current outbreaks, and health guidance is available through the Arkansas Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s cyclosporiasis resources.
