Intestinal illness strikes 83 in Canada

Public health officials are warning about an outbreak of the intestinal illness cyclospora, with 83 cases being investigated across Canada.

The Public Health Agency of Canada said two people have been hospitalized from the parasite but no deaths have been reported.

The cases became known between May 9 and July 18 and are mainly in Ontario, but there are also some infections in B.C., Alberta and Quebec.

The source is unknown, but past outbreaks of cyclospora have been linked to various types of imported fresh produce, such as pre-packaged salad mix, basil, cilantro, berries, mesclun lettuce and snow peas.

Cyclospora can be cured with antibiotics. Symptoms can include stomach cramps and diarrhea.

People are being asked to take extra care to clean and properly store fruits and vegetables.