New Mexico health officials say the state has three confirmed cyclosporiasis cases this year and they urge people to prevent it with hand washing.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico health officials say the state has three confirmed cyclosporiasis cases this year and they urge people to prevent it with hand washing.
The New Mexico Department of Health said the parasite spreads through contaminated fruit, vegetables and water. Officials said cases usually rise between May and August.
“First things first, absolutely no need to panic,” said Sarah Shrum Davis of the New Mexico Department of Health.
Health officials said cyclospora has sickened people across the country, with 170 cases in Michigan and more than two dozen in Texas so far this year.
Officials said the best way to prevent cyclospora is to wash hands before preparing food and wash fresh produce.
“So the best way to prevent cyclospora is by hand washing, especially before you prepare food, and washing fresh produce,” said Shrum Davis.
At a grocery store, some New Mexicans told KOB 4 they plan to pay closer attention now that the parasite has been confirmed in the state.
“Yes, I definitely want to wash my hands before and after,” said Anthony Sarinana.
How can people protect themselves?
“I want to wash my hands, the stuff that I put into my body because… it doesn’t sound fun at all,” said Louie Ruelas.
“Generally when I juice, I typically scrub the vegetables. I soak them with baking soda… so I think in the future, just kind of scrub better,” said Jasmine Contreras.
State health officials said people who develop symptoms should see a doctor instead of trying to diagnose themselves. They said a simple stool test can show whether the parasite is the cause.
Officials said 20 people across the country have been hospitalized in the most severe cases.
