Quebec records 223 cyclosporiasis cases, triple last year's count

Quebec has recorded an unprecedented surge in cyclosporiasis cases this summer, with 223 infections reported as of August 1—more than triple the average seen over the previous four years and nearly triple last year's 79 cases during the same period.

Cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, typically causes severe watery diarrhea lasting several weeks. The Ministry of Health and Social Services said the majority of Quebec cases continue to be linked to travel, particularly to Mexico, and are not believed to be connected to a large U.S. outbreak linked to contaminated lettuce.

"Currently, according to the information we have, no Quebec cases seem to be associated with the ongoing outbreak associated with lettuce in several U.S. states, including Michigan," the ministry said in a statement.

The MSSS is continuing to investigate cases acquired within Quebec to determine whether imported fresh produce may be a common source. Fewer than five people have been hospitalized, no patients have required intensive care, and no deaths have been reported in the province.

Health officials are advising people to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, use safe drinking water, and take extra precautions when travelling to tropical or subtropical regions, where the parasite is more common.