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RALEIGH, N.C. — National Cyclospora lawyer Jory Lange is investigating a Cyclospora outbreak in Wake County, N.C. The Wake County Health Department has seen 134 cyclosporiasis cases reported since May. Its investigation suggests that herbs and vegetables contaminated with Cyclospora parasites may be the cause of the outbreak. The herbs and vegetables at issue were sold at three local restaurants in Wake County.
Microscopic Cyclospora parasites spread when people eat food that was contaminated with human feces (stool). Cyclospora causes watery diarrhea with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements.
"The scary thing about this outbreak is, as a consumer, there's nothing you can do to tell whether the food that you are buying is safe,” said Lange. “You can't taste, smell or see Cyclospora parasites. Food that is contaminated with Cyclospora parasites may look, smell and taste just like any other food. This is why it's critical that the corporations that make and sell our food ensure the food is safe before they sell it.”
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