Connecticut has recorded 35 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis so far this year, nearly double the number reported in the same period last year, state health officials say. With the source of a wider, national outbreak still under investigation, doctors and local vendors are urging residents to take simple precautions when handling produce.
What residents should do now
Primary-care physicians say many cases go unreported because infected people may not have symptoms or might not seek medical care. Dr. Ulysees Wu, who has treated patients in Connecticut, said the state is likely undercounting infections.
“We\'re seeing an uptick now because the source hasn\'t definitively been isolated,” Dr. Ulysees Wu said.
Wu offered practical steps to reduce the risk of infection: cook produce when possible, wash raw fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and practice hand hygiene before and after handling food. He also told consumers that choosing locally produced goods may lower risk if the outbreak source is not local, but it does not guarantee safety.
Local experiences and market response
Kyle Devoe of Coventry Public Market said many items at the market come from Connecticut farms and that vendors are working to trace and communicate product sources to customers.
“They\'re in the fields, they know what\'s coming in and out of their farm every single day,” Devoe said.
Residents who have experienced the illness described severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Kaylee Conley of Coventry said she believes eating a single raspberry precipitated her bout of illness, which left her confined to her home for nine days with intense cramps, headaches and prolonged diarrhea.
“Terrible. Wouldn\'t do it again. Zero out of zero,” Conley said.
Conley advised others who become ill to stay hydrated and rest, recommending electrolyte solutions for recovery.
Why the outbreak matters
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis and is commonly associated with contaminated fresh produce. While many infected people experience symptoms that can range from watery diarrhea to stomach cramps and headaches, the illness can be particularly severe for young children and those with weakened immune systems.
- Confirmed Connecticut cases so far this year: 35.
- Trend: nearly double last year's reported cases.
- Advice from health professionals: cook or thoroughly wash produce and practice hand hygiene.
| Year | Reported cases in CT |
|---|---|
| This year | 35 |
| Last year | About half that total (nearly half) |
State and federal epidemiologists are investigating to pinpoint the contaminated product or supply chain involved. Until the investigation identifies a source, health officials recommend that consumers remain vigilant about food handling and seek medical attention if they develop prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms.
Reporting by local markets suggests many Connecticut vendors are emphasizing traceability and vendor-farm communication to reassure customers, but experts stress that no single step eliminates risk entirely.
Residents with questions about symptoms or illness should contact their health care provider or the Connecticut Department of Public Health for guidance.
