TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — Austin Public Health (APH) is investigating a Cyclosporiasis outbreak in Travis County.

What You Need To Know

  • Caused by microscopic parasite

  • Symptoms include diarrhea and nausea

  • Spreads by contaminated fruits and vegetables

APH says 82 cases have been reported as of August 5, with the earliest symptom onset reported on June 1.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. It is spread by consuming food or water that has been contaminated with feces. APH has not identified a single source for the latest outbreak, but previous outbreaks have been linked to a variety of fresh fruits or vegetables, including raspberries, cilantro, basil, and green onions.

It usually takes a week for a person to develop symptoms once infected. The symptoms can include diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, and fatigue.

If you suspect you may have been infected, seek medical attention. Untreated, the disease can last from a few days to a month.

“While we may be in COVID-19 season, we cannot forget the other diseases and infections that are commonly present in our community,” said APH Chief Epidemiologist Janet Pichette. “And as we have said time and time again, there are ways to prevent many of these diseases and infections, including Cyclosporiasis — thoroughly wash fresh produce, wash your hands after handling fruits and vegetables, and separate produce from raw meat and seafood.”

APH says Cyclosporiasis infection can be prevented by following safe fruit and vegetable handling guidelines. Travis County health officials offer the following tips on their website:

  • Wash: Wash hands with soap and warm water before and after handling or preparing fruits and vegetables. Also wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and counter tops with soap and hot water between the preparation of raw meat products and the preparation of fruits and vegetables.
  • Prepare: Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking. Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush. Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating.
  • Store: Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible, or within two hours. Separate fruits and vegetables from raw meat and seafood.