Health experts are advising people to wash their fresh produce before consuming it.
The warning comes as a parasitic infection called Cyclosporaisis has been reported in 31 states, including Arizona.
The infection causes stomach cramping, fatigue and diarrhea about a week after exposure.
Valleywise Health Dr. Frank Lovecchio said it comes from produce contaminated by human feces.
“The foods that it’s been linked to have included cilantro, basil, lettuce, raspberry, salad mixes, snow peas,” Lovecchio said.
At least 10 cases have been reported in Arizona this year.
“The people in Arizona seem to report that it occurred from eating romaine lettuce,” Lovecchio said.
While most people can recover on their own, those with compromised immune systems or other illnesses might need to be treated. The biggest problem it causes is dehydration.
It is not easily spread from person to person.
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