While it continues to monitor the situation, Lambton Public Health (LPH) says there's no evidence the Cyclospora parasite outbreak in Michigan has made its way to the county.
Supervisor of Health Protection Carshenan Lai notes there are usually three or four cases locally per year but as of right now there's been no spike in cases.
Lai said cyclosporiasis is a foodborne illness.
"Symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal bloating and sometimes a low-grade fever," said Lai. "The infection can be treated with antibiotics. People can become infected after they consume food or water that's contaminated with Cyclospora. We do know that previous outbreaks have been associated with fresh produce including leafy greens, fresh herbs, berries, and pre-packaged salads."
Lai stresses that the illness can't be transmitted from one person to another.
"Locally in Lambton County we haven't seen an increase in cases compared to previous years," she said. "We're definitely continuing to monitor the situation. We are aware of what's happening over in Michigan."
Lai wants people travelling to the United States to be a bit cautious.
"Be extra diligent if you're consuming food over there," said Lai. "Be aware of the symptoms. If you're not feeling well, monitor your symptoms and seek medical treatment from a professional."
Lai said they'll follow up on any cases that pop up around Sarnia-Lambton and investigate whether they're tied to the outbreak.
As of August 1, a total of 24 cases of cyclosporiasis had been reported in Windsor-Essex and there's an average of three cases per year there usually.
Michigan has reported 12,485 cases, including 279 people who required hospitalization, and two deaths.
They were sickened after eating lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms. The outbreak was traced back to the company's operations in Mexico.
Meanwhile, The Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG) is reassuring consumers that its products are safe to eat.
