Canadians warned about outbreak of intestinal illness linked to produce

A basil plant is seen in this Aug. 1, 2007 file photo. (AP / Larry Crowe)

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

The Public Health Agency of Canada has issued a statement that says 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 agency says 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 is generally low-risk and can be cured with antibiotics, but people with weakened immune systems, children and the elderly are at increased risk of developing complications.

Symptoms can include stomach cramps, diarrhea and loss of appetite.

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