Diarrhea outbreak on the rise in Charlotte area with 18 cases

What we know: Doctors say some illnesses may be connected with lettuce and other salad greens. Some experts advise temporarily avoiding bagged salads or produce altogether.

• "People should still thoroughly wash all fresh fruits and vegetables under running water, as this can reduce — though not eliminate — contamination," says Steven Goldberg, chief medical officer at HealthTrack.
• Also, practice good hygiene to reduce your risk of infection. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm, soapy water.

By the numbers: North Carolina health officials said that between May 1-July 14, 307 cases of cyclosporiasis had been reported, with 13 of those cases requiring hospitalization.

• Local medical leaders noted that about 60% of Mecklenburg County cases were tied to international travel, our news partners at WBTV report.
• No deaths have been reported related to the outbreaks.
• The parasitic illness has infected more than 7,000 people across 34 states.

Symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to more than a month. They include:

• Watery diarrhea with frequent, sometimes explosive bowel movements
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Stomach cramps/pain
• Bloating
• Increased gas
• Nausea
• Fatigue

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