Health officials in New Hampshire have confirmed several cases of cyclosporiasis. The parasite cyclospora has been the source of a widespread outbreak that can cause diarrhea and serious stomach illness.
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services said Thursday that nine people who ate lettuce served at the Cheshire Medical Center cafeteria in Keene have been diagnosed with cyclosporiasis.
The cafeteria served lettuce that has been recalled by Taylor Farms due to the national Cyclospora outbreak. Officials say the lettuce is no longer being served at the facility.
Officials are investigating the possibility of more connected cases.
Federal officials earlier this week said they remained focused on lettuce from Taylor Farms as the source of a separate, multistate outbreak. The company last week announced it was recalling iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects food that has come into contact with human feces, most commonly when produce is irrigated or washed with contaminated water. When ingested, the parasite causes intestinal illness marked by “frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Federal and state health authorities have been investigating separate clusters of cyclospora illnesses, including the one traced to Taylor Farms.
Food safety tips include washing hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before handling food. Experts say cooking can kill the parasite and advise cooking produce to a temperature of at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 Celsius.)
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