Health Alert: Global Affairs Updates US Travel Advice

One of the best parts of travelling is eating the food of other countries. With Global Affairs’ latest update to the U.S. travel advice page, travellers may be a little more wary about chowing down in the States. The risk level remains at green/exercise normal precautions, but the health section has been updated under the subheading “Outbreak Monitoring” to provide information about the Cyclosporiasis outbreak currently affecting several states.

The intestinal illness is caused by a parasite called Cyclospora which infects people who eat food that has come into contact with the parasite. According to Health Canada, the Cyclospora parasite gets in sources of water when feces from infected people enter the water supply. Food can then become contaminated when this water is used on crops or in food processing and packaging.

The U.S. outbreak has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce. CBC News reports that as of July 20, more than 30 states have reported illnesses, with about 100 hospitalizations to date and no deaths. “The true number of infections is likely much higher given that many people recover without seeking medical treatment and that there is lag between when symptoms start and reporting,” the report states.  The most common symptom of infection is watery diarrhea. If left untreated, symptoms may last from a few days up to a few months, with most people suffering symptoms for six to seven weeks. Symptoms may go away and then return.

Global Affairs includes the following advice for travellers to reduce their risk of infection, by:

• Thoroughly washing fresh fruits and vegetables under clean, cool, running water before eating them. Note that disinfectants and produce washes may not completely remove Cyclospora.
  Wash produce even if it’s labelled as pre-washed or ready to eat.
• Cooking produce while travelling in states experiencing an outbreak of cyclosporiasis.
• Following safe food and water practices while travelling.

For more information, see Eat and drink safely outside Canada.

Anyone who develops diarrhea that is severe, watery, or lasts more than a few days, is advised seek medical attention.

Related: Canada Issues Warning over Drinking Alcohol in Brazil

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