LAFAYETTE, La. (NEWS 15) — Cases of a gastrointestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora have more than doubled in one week across Louisiana, with the Lafayette and Baton Rouge areas reporting the highest concentrations in the state.
Louisiana health officials reported at least 55 confirmed cases statewide, including five hospitalizations. The week prior, 23 cases had been reported. Since May 1, the CDC has confirmed more than 1,600 cases across the United States.
Cyclospora is a parasitic organism that causes a gastrointestinal illness with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The illness begins with fecal contamination of raw vegetables in the field, which can then infect humans if the produce is not washed properly…