At least four cases of an intestinal illness that can cause "explosive" diarrhea have been reported in Buncombe County, local health officials confirmed Thursday.

Later in the day, Henderson County reported that it has had seven cases since July 2.

Cyclosporiasis has been on the rise across North Carolina as dozens of states report an uptick in cases of the infection caused by a foodborne parasite. The state has reported 307 cases of cyclosporiasis and 13 hospitalizations between May 1 and July 14, according to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

Cyclosporiasis explained

As previously reported, cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by consuming food or water containing the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. This occurs when food is contaminated by feces, according to the CDC.

Cyclospora is associated largely with fresh herbs and raw produce, such as cilantro and parsley. Contamination begins in the area where a produce or herb is grown, according to Buncombe County health officials.

People infected with Cyclospora typically experience watery diarrhea with frequent and sometimes "explosive" bowel movements, according to the CDC. Other symptoms can include bloating, stomach cramping, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, gas and nausea. Some people infected with the parasite may not experience any symptoms.

Cyclosporiasis is not life-threatening for most people, but it can lead to hospitalization, particularly for vulnerable groups like immunocompromised individuals or the elderly.

The CDC says the time between infection and the start of symptoms for cyclosporiasis is usually about one week. The illness can be treated, however, with certain antibiotics.

Cyclosporiasis in North Carolina

With more than 300 reported cases in North Carolina, there has not yet been a singular product identified as the source of the current cyclosporiasis cases in the state.

State and county health officials are working to identify any sources of exposure, but they say tracing can be difficult.

The cases in North Carolina have also not been linked to outbreaks in any other states, the NCDHHS confirmed.

In Buncombe County, health experts are working with local healthcare providers, environmental health specialists and neighboring counties to monitor for any further cases.

Health, safety and prevention tips

Food and health experts advise all people to follow standard food safety handling recommendations, including safe preparation, cooking and storage methods.

According to health officials, the parasite Cyclospora can travel from the field to the plate, so be sure to clean fresh produce well.

The following practices are recommended when handling produce:

• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap before and after handling produce
• Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water, even if it is labeled "prewashed"
• Cook produce to reduce any risk of illness
• For firm fruits and vegetables, scrub them with a clean produce brush.
• Cut away any damaged or bruised areas before preparing produce
• Refrigerate all cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours

Additionally, the NCDHHS recommends removing the outermost leaves of a head of lettuce or cabbage.

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