Canada updates U.S. travel advisory over 'diarrhea lettuce' parasite

Before crossing the border, travellers from Canada may want to check the latest travel advisory update for the U.S.

The Government of Canada has just issued an update for its travel health notice for the U.S. According to the government, U.S. authorities are continuing to investigate several outbreaks of cyclosporiasis, an illness of the intestine caused by a parasite called Cyclospora.

The advisory warns that people can get sick and infected if they eat food or drink water that contains the Cyclospora parasite; however, it adds that the infection is unlikely to spread between people.

"The most common symptom of infection is watery diarrhea. If left untreated, you may have the symptoms for a few days up to a few months," reads the statement. "Most people have symptoms for six to seven weeks. Sometimes, symptoms may go away and then return."

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), symptoms can also include:

• Abdominal bloating and gas
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Stomach cramps
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Mild fever
• Nausea

As of May 1, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received reports of 4,173 laboratory-confirmed domestic cases of cyclosporiasis, 308 hospitalizations, and is aware of more than 7,400 additional cases that have yet to be confirmed.

Canadians travelling in the U.S. are urged to reduce their risk of infection by washing fresh fruits and vegetables under clean, cool, running water before eating them, even if the label states that it's pre-washed or ready to eat. Disinfectants and produce washes may not totally remove the parasite.

And if you're travelling in affected states, make sure to cook produce before eating it and follow safe food and water practices. Seek medical attention if you develop severe or watery diarrhea that lasts more than a few days.