Testing done by the CDC has revealed the pathogen responsible for an outbreak associated with apple cider at the Pike County Color Drive has been identified. Samples from people and the environment tested positive for Cryptosporidium poisoning. The unpasteurized apple cider was likely contaminated by exposure to cow manure. A private family farm in Adams County produced the cider, and it was distributed during the Pike County Fall Color Drive in mid-October 2015. Cattle are also kept of this farm, and are located near the cider press. At least 70 people were sickened after the Color Drive, and their illness onset dates range from October 20 to October 28.
The bacteria Cryptosporidium can cause a gastrointestinal disease in humans called Cryptosporidiosis. Generally the disease is the result of consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms usually begin between 2 and 10 days after infection, and causes symptoms such as vomiting, fever, watery diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In many cases someone with Cryptosporidiosis will recover without medical intervention, and symptoms will usually last about 1 to 2 weeks. Some cases require medical attention, so it is still a good idea to contact a medical professional if you or a loved one begin to show the symptoms of Cryptosporidium poisoning.
