The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability (MHES) and the Public Health Department (PHD) are aware of reports of an increase in cases of cyclosporiasis in the United States (US) and wish to reassure the public that one confirmed case has been identified in the Cayman Islands to date. The case is associated with recent travel and is believed to have been acquired outside the Cayman Islands. There is no evidence of ongoing local transmission or an outbreak.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People can become infected when they drink water or eat food, usually raw produce, that is carrying the parasite. Food picks up the parasite most often through water supplies that are infected with human feaces (poop). Diarrhoea is the main symptom and can be acute or last for weeks or months if untreated. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, bloating, fatigue and weight loss. The illness is treatable, and most people recover with appropriate medical care.
The Minister for Health, Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, said: “We are committed to keeping the public informed, acting on the best available evidence, and ensuring that the systems in place continue to protect the health of our communities."
The Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Hilary Wolf, said: “At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that the recent increase in cases reported in the United States presents an increased risk to the residents of the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands Molecular Biology Laboratory has diagnostic capability to detect cyclospora infection, and we continue to monitor information provided through international health partners while maintaining heightened surveillance and public health monitoring protocols.”
Although the US is a major source of imported produce for the Cayman Islands, there is currently no indication that consumers should avoid purchasing or consuming fresh fruits and vegetables. Residents are encouraged to continue following routine food safety practices and monitoring official channels for updates.
The Medical Officer for Health, Dr. Eryka Simmons, said: “The driving force for this year’s increase in cyclosporiasis is unknown, and whilst no specific food item has been identified as the source of infection, nor a specific brand or seller of food, the CDC has advised that lettuce or salad greens, especially pre-packaged salads, are potential sources for the infection. We encourage residents to be vigilant, increase their adherence to hand hygiene practices, and wash all fresh produce before consumption, even if they are pre-packaged.”
Director for the Department of Environmental Health, Mr. Richard Simms, said: “The Cayman Islands has a robust inspection process for imported fruits, vegetables, and staples, including produce transported between Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac, which is accepted at refrigeration temperature. Inspection activities include verifying appropriate refrigeration temperatures during transportation and storage to maintain the cold chain. We also works closely with the Department of Agriculture when concerns are identified. Any spoiled, mouldy or contaminated produce detected during inspections is condemned and destroyed under the supervision of Environmental Health Officers.”
Health officials are encouraging the public to follow these food safety recommendations to reduce the risk of cyclosporiasis:
§ Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet, after changing diapers, before handling food or unwashed produce, and before eating.
§ Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under safe running water. Where available, a food-safe produce sanitising wash may also be used.
§ Refrigerate fresh produce promptly and store it appropriately.
§ Cook foods thoroughly at 158 degrees celsius, as adequate cooking destroys the parasite.
§ Drink bottled or properly treated water if the safety of the water supply is uncertain.
§ Avoid touching human or animal faeces.
§ Stay informed of any official food recall notices and follow the guidance provided.
Individuals who develop persistent diarrhoea or other symptoms consistent with cyclosporiasis, particularly after recent travel from the US or consumption of fresh produce, should seek medical advice promptly.
The Ministry will continue to monitor developments and provide updates should public health guidance change.
For further information, please contact the Public Health Department at 345-244-2889 or 345-244-6221.