By Auggie Brown
Glasgow News 1
Four cases of cyclosporiasis have been confirmed in Barren County, part of a growing total of 605 cases reported across Kentucky, according to numbers released by the Kentucky Department for Public Health.
85 of the state’s 120 counties have at least one confirmed case of cyclosporiasis. Jefferson County currently has the highest number of confirmed cases at 66, followed closely by Fayette County with 65 and Madison County with 35.
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which is often linked to eating food contaminated with the parasite, particularly fresh fruits and vegetables, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC says proper handling, washing and cooking of produce are key steps residents can take to help reduce their risk.
The CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables. Officials also advise washing all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them, and scrubbing firm produce such as melons and cucumbers with a clean produce brush.
Food safety guidance also calls for cutting away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating them. Since washing alone cannot guarantee removal of the parasite, the CDC says cooking produce to a temperature of at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit, or 70 degrees Celsius, can kill Cyclospora.
Health experts further recommend refrigerating cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible, within two hours, to limit the chance of contamination or bacterial growth. Officials say following these basic food safety steps can help lower the risk of cyclosporiasis as case numbers continue to climb across Kentucky.
Key Facts
– Four confirmed cyclosporiasis cases reported in Barren County
– Kentucky Department for Public Health reports 605 cases statewide
– 85 of 120 Kentucky counties have at least one confirmed case
– Jefferson, Fayette and Madison counties report the highest case counts
– CDC urges thorough washing, scrubbing and proper cooking of produce
– Refrigerating cut or cooked fruits and vegetables can help reduce risk
