CDC says parasite-linked illness has reached Arkansas; more than 800 U.S. cases reported

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed that a parasite that causes symptoms similar to a stomach bug has spread to Arkansas, and the agency said more than 800 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported nationwide since May, with at least 10 cases identified in Arkansas as of Thursday, according to a media transcript of a public briefing.

The Arkansas Department of Health has linked past outbreaks of cyclosporiasis to fresh produce, including leafy greens, spinach and berries, the transcript says. Health officials warned that people can become infected by eating contaminated produce or drinking infected water.

A speaker identified in the transcript as "Presenter" advised preventative steps: "It's really important that, you know, we wash our hands, wash our fruits and vegetables, especially the fresh produce, and even those that may be in the bag, just so that we can, you know, reduce the risk of of being infected," the speaker said.

The transcript also records that authorities are monitoring the outbreak across the country and that, so far, no one has died from the illness. Health leaders in the transcript urged people who start to feel unwell to drink plenty of water and seek medical guidance if symptoms persist.

The media record ends abruptly mid-sentence, indicating the briefing transcript is incomplete.