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Jacqueline Howard, CNN Health Reporter: Here's what you need to know. In some cases, this illness has been tied to eating fresh produce. And the illness that we're talking about here is called Cyclosporiasis. It's caused by the parasite Cyclospora. And health officials are investigating cases across several states. In some of those states, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas, cases have been linked to eating fresh produce from Mexican-style restaurants, local chain grocery stores, and 10catered events. Some examples of produce potentially include cilantro, onions, and cucumbers. Now, there are at least eight additional 11clusters of cases that are still under investigation in several other states as well. And, Cyclosporiasis, it causes intestinal illness. So, symptoms include watery 12diarrhea, in some cases, 13explosive diarrhea, and these symptoms can last for weeks. 

The illness can be treated with 14antibiotics, but it can be a very 15miserable illness. So you want to avoid getting sick 16in the first place. To do that, avoid food or water that may 17be contaminated with 18feces. Experts say that's how this parasite can spread. Also, make sure you 19thoroughly wash any fresh fruits or vegetables that you have. If you have firm fruits like melons, scrub them with a brush. And 20basic hygiene21goes a long way. Wash your hands with soap and water, especially before preparing food.