The Georgia Department of Public Health is urging residents to take extra precautions when purchasing, preparing and eating fresh fruits and vegetables to help prevent cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora.

DPH says it is not currently aware of any Georgia-specific outbreaks, clusters or confirmed links to the multistate outbreak that has sickened more than 1,000 people. A national investigation into possible common sources remains underway.

People can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Treated water in the United States does not contain Cyclospora. Although cases are reported in Georgia each year, many are typically associated with international travel.

The most common symptom is watery diarrhea, which may include frequent or explosive bowel movements. Other symptoms can include bloating, cramping and loss of appetite. While most people recover without treatment, some patients may require hospitalization because of dehydration. The illness can last from several days to more than a month, and symptoms may disappear and later return.

Health officials recommend several steps to reduce the risk of infection:

• Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling raw produce.
• Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
• Do not rewash produce labeled “prewashed.”
• Scrub firm produce, including melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
• Remove damaged or bruised areas before preparing food.
• Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked produce within two hours.

Anyone experiencing prolonged symptoms is encouraged to contact a healthcare provider.