The Ministry of Health and Wellness says there are no suspected or confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in Barbados despite an outbreak of the foodborne illness in the United States.
In a statement, the Ministry said it continues to monitor the outbreak, which has affected 34 states and resulted in 1,645 confirmed cases. It added that the Caribbean Public Health Agency has reported no cases in the region.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the Cyclospora parasite and is spread through contaminated food, particularly fresh fruit and uncooked vegetables. Symptoms include acute diarrhoea, abdominal pain and vomiting, and are usually self-limiting within five to seven days.
The Ministry reminded the public to thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables, practise good hand hygiene, avoid mixing raw and cooked foods, and ensure hot and cold foods are stored at safe temperatures.
With increased food preparation and sales expected during the Crop Over season, food vendors are also being urged to ensure they have valid Food Handling Certificates and maintain proper food handling practices.
Anyone with queries may contact the Environmental Health Department at their respective polyclinics. (MOHW)
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