Hamilton County, Ohio: Cyclosporiasis cases continue to concern health officials as Hamilton County reports a statistically significant rise in people seeking treatment for gastrointestinal illnesses.

Hamilton County Public Health said its epidemiology department investigates every reported case through the Ohio Disease Reporting System. Investigators collect information about patients’ symptoms, medical history and recent food consumption to help identify possible sources of infection.

Cyclosporiasis is a foodborne illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People usually contract the disease after eating contaminated fresh produce.

Health officials said more than 40 people recently sought medical care for symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, blood in the stool, fatigue and suspected food poisoning.

According to the latest statewide data available through July 9, Ohio has reported 364 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, resulting in 46 hospitalisations. Officials have not reported any deaths.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 843 confirmed cases and 86 hospitalisations nationwide as of July 9. The outbreak has affected 31 states.

Doctors say watery diarrhoea remains the most common symptom, while patients may also experience stomach cramps, bloating and loss of appetite.

Health officials advised anyone experiencing these symptoms to contact a healthcare provider. Doctors typically treat the infection with antibiotics, while rest and adequate fluid intake help support recovery.

To reduce the risk of infection, officials recommend washing hands with soap and water before and after handling fresh produce, rinsing fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water, scrubbing firm produce with a clean brush and refrigerating cut or cooked produce promptly.

Hamilton County Public Health noted that foodborne illnesses affect about one in six people each year and urged residents to follow safe food preparation, cooking and storage practices.