WASHINGTON (7News) — Health officials are warning about a parasitic infection spreading quickly across the country, with cases now reported in 18 states.
The illness, cyclosporiasis, is described as a potentially dangerous stomach bug that can be traced to produce and water.
There have been 32 confirmed cases reported in Maryland and 10 in Virginia.
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The Virginia Department of Health’s Kelsey Holloman joined the broadcast to discuss how quickly the infection appears to be spreading and what health officials are seeing in Virginia, as well as how it is believed to be spreading through produce and water.
Holloman also addressed how severe symptoms can be, including whether they can be serious enough to require hospitalization, what warning signs should prompt someone to see a doctor, and whether the illness is something people simply have to wait out.
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Health officials also emphasized the importance of taking steps to protect against infection.
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