Officials are looking into an intestinal illness that’s affecting the region.
The number of Cyclosporiasis cases that have been reported has risen.
Cyclosporiasis impacts individuals who eat food or drink water that carries a microscopic parasite, according to a release from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
Fifteen reports of the illness have been made across Northern Virginia. There were eight cases last summer.
Health professionals are also testing more than 40 people who work at local businesses and reported having gastrointestinal illness.
They haven’t found a source for the outbreak.
Previous ones have been connected to some produce, including cilantro, mesclun lettuce and raspberries.
Signs of Cyclosporiasis include diarrhea, bloating, vomiting and weight loss. Those who have any symptoms are encouraged to visit their healthcare provider.
Community members can avoid contracting the illness by washing their hands and fruits and vegetables.
Fruits and vegetables should be refrigerated within two hours of being cut, peeled or cooked.
Additional information is available on the VDH website or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
Questions may be directed to area health departments.
