National Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

How Hamilton County can best protect itself

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.– The illness Cyclosporiasis is currently affecting a great majority of the United States, over 30 States currently having reported cases of the virus.

Cyclosporiasis is microscopic, but it can be found in contaminated food and water, impacting the bowels of an individual and leaving them weak due to dehydration.

Dr. Stephen Miller, the lead medical officer for the Hamilton County Health Department, spoke out about the potential of Cyclosporiasis finding its way into Hamilton County, and what individuals can do to protect themselves.

According to Dr. Miller, Cyclosporiasis has been found in leafy greens, sweet peas, and various berries in past cases, but at the moment, the CDC is unsure of what food is causing this outbreak. It cannot be transferred from individual to individual, but produce being shipped from outside states can be contaminated.

While there are no cases in Hamilton County currently, Dr. Miller still believes that taking precautions are critical for ensuring the health and safety of our community. This includes washing your hands, thoroughly washing all fresh produce, and putting uneaten food away quickly after preparing it.