El Periódico USA, Wednesday May 8, 2024

U.S. CONGRESSMAN HENRY CUELLAR CHARGED WITH BRIBERY AND ACTING AS A FOREIGN AGENT

Congressman Allegedly Accepted Approximately $600,000 from Azerbaijan’s State-Owned Oil Company and a Mexican Bank in Exchange for Official Acts as a Member of Congress, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Public Affairs.

An indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of Texas charging U.S. Congressman Enrique Roberto “Henry” Cuellar, 68, and his wife, Imelda Cuellar, 67, both of Laredo, Texas, with participating in two schemes involving bribery, unlawful foreign influence, and money laundering. Congressman Cuellar and Imelda Cuellar made their initial court appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena Palermo in Houston.

According to court documents, beginning in at least December 2014 and

continuing through at least November 2021, Congressman Cuellar and Imelda Cuellar allegedly accepted approximately $600,000 in bribes from two foreign entities: an oil and gas company wholly owned and controlled by the Government of Azerbaijan, and a bank headquartered in Mexico City. The bribe payments were allegedly laundered, pursuant to sham consulting contracts, through a series of front companies and middlemen into shell companies owned by Imelda Cuellar, who performed little to no legitimate work under the contracts. In exchange for the bribes paid by the Azerbaijani oil and gas company, Congressman Cuellar allegedly agreed to use his office to influence U.S. foreign policy in favor of Azerbaijan. In exchange for the bribes paid by the Mexican bank, Congressman Cuellar allegedly

agreed to influence legislative activity and to advise and pressure high-ranking U.S. Executive Branch officials regarding measures beneficial to the bank.

Congressman Cuellar and Imelda Cuellar are each charged with the following offenses, and if convicted, face maximum penalties as indicated: two counts of conspiracy to commit bribery of a federal official and to have a public official act as an agent of a foreign principal required to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), five years imprisonment on each count; two counts of bribery of a federal official, 15 years imprisonment on each count; two counts of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud, 20 years imprisonment on each count; two counts of violating the ban on public officials acting as agents of a foreign principal required to register under FARA, two years imprisonment on each count; one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, 20 years imprisonment; and five counts of money laundering, 20 years imprisonment on each count.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division; FBI; and DOSOIG made the announcement.

Acting Deputy Chief Marco A. Palmieri, Acting Deputy Chief Rosaleen O’Gara, and Trial Attorney Celia Choy of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Trial Attorney Garrett Coyle of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Education

STC alumnus set to earn a doctorate in Occupational Therapy

Veteran and STC alumnus Jose Cruz found his true passion in STC’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Now, as a dedicated healthcare professional, he’s spent eight years tutoring and mentoring fellow students.

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Local Events

Join us on Memorial Day weekend as we lace up our running shoes and come together to honor the remarkable legacy of Medal of Honor recipient Alfredo Cantu Gonzalez, affectionately known as Freddy.

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Honoring a Hero: Freddy Gonzalez Legacy 5K Run

Operation Imagination Summer Camps Return to IMAS

McAllen, TX - The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is thrilled to announce the return of Operation Imagination Summer Camps from June 3rd to August 2nd, 2024. With exciting themes and favorite activities from previous years, this summer promises to be packed with fun and learning for children of all ages.

Each week of camp offers engaging activities around a specific art and science theme. The IMAS provides a unique setting for educational experiences with special museum collections, exhibits to explore, the McAllen Public Utility BioZone, Science on a Sphere (SOS), all lead by NAI certified educators. Campers can learn about “Being Green” or explore anthropology, geology, entomology, engineering, visual arts, the cosmos, and animal adaptation.

Additionally, lunch will be provided through McAllen ISD’s summer feeding

program. Campers with dietary restrictions are welcome to bring their own lunch and snacks.

Camps run Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with drop-off between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., and pick-up between 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Registration for Operation Imagination: Summer Camp is now open. Pricing is $190 per camp and $150 for IMAS Members. Some camp prices vary due to holidays, and sibling discounts are available for children within the same family unit and within the same camp week’s grade level.

These camps are made possible with the generous support of Clark Chevrolet, Clark Knapp Honda, City of McAllen, McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos SOTC Fund, and The Warren Group Architects, Inc.

To register for Operation Imagination: Summer Camp, visit: theimasonline.org/ summer-camp/

STC’s Public Safety Expo Paves The Way For Aspiring First Responders

Over 430 high school students and community members recently attended the South Texas College Public Safety and First Responders Expo, an annual event that continues to empower and inspire future generations of public safety professionals.

Hosted at STC’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence in Pharr, more than 35 local, state and federal agencies had the opportunity to engage with the community, providing valuable insight into their respective fields through exciting exhibitions and equipment demonstrations.

“This is the perfect opportunity for students interested in these fields to catch a glimpse of their future. It’s all about raising awareness, enlightening the community about the opportunities available and guiding students toward the next chapter in their lives,” said STC Dean for Business, Technology and Public Safety Sara Lozano. “STC leads the way in innovation and bringing essential opportunities. Our Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence was established precisely for this purpose: to provide education and training to our community, which is in high demand for highly skilled professionals.”

Students explored potential careers with exhibitors from local police and fire departments, Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

“I’ve always dreamed of being a state trooper, so I took the opportunity to speak with a couple of officers. They walked me through the application process and offered

valuable advice for when I graduate,” shared Lindsay Vazquez from Juarez-Lincoln High School. “This experience was not only interesting, but incredibly useful. I couldn’t wait to call my mother and share all the details with her.”

Ivan Ramirez, from Valley View High School, shared a similar sentiment about his aspirations to start a career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

“They advised me to begin gaining experience in a police department, and that guidance has encouraged me to take my first step,” he explained.

The event showcased a motorcycle demonstration by the Pharr Police Department, along with their Mounted Patrol Unit, and a K-9 Unit demonstration by the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office.

“It’s an incredible feeling to return and now have the chance to share my experiences with young kids and current cadets,” expressed Lesslee Gonzalez, a recent STC graduate now serving with the San Juan Police Department. “I graduated in December and was hired within a month. The academy truly prepared me for where I am today and what the job entails. Coming back feels like coming full circle.”

STC provides diverse opportunities for future first responders, including Law Enforcement, Fire Science, Criminal Justice, Paramedic programs, and various EMS certificates.

For more information on STC’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence and the programs and trainings offered, visit southtexascollege.edu. www.english.elperiodicousa.com

Three indicted for providing firearms to Cartel del Noreste

LAREDO, Texas – Three Laredo residents are charged with purchasing firearms for the cartel and transporting them to Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

A federal grand jury has returned a four-count indictment against Angela Ruby Ponce, 18, Oscar Axel Flores, 22, and Mario Alberto Tovar, 28. They are expected to appear for their arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga May 2.

The indictment alleges from Jan. 1 through on or about April 2, Ponce, Flores and Tovar conspired with each other in trafficking firearms for the Cartel del Noreste (CDN).

Each are charged with conspiracy, smuggling goods from the United States, trafficking firearms and purchasing firearms directly for the CDN.

On April 2, the trio allegedly went to a federal firearms licensee in Laredo to purchase a semi-automatic rifle. After the purchase, U.S. authorities stopped them as they attempted to leave the United States and head to Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, according to the charges.

The criminal complaint originally filed in the case alleges the group was working on behalf of the CDN. The three are believed to have purchased and transported at least 12 firearms to the CDN over the course of

Monte Cristo Rd. Under Construction: Drive

Safely!

Attention, drivers! Monte Cristo Rd. between Alamo Rd. and Sharp Rd. is currently undergoing construction to bring about significant improvements. The primary focus of this project is the widening of the road to enhance traffic flow and safety for all commuters.

Construction is expected to continue until December 2025, so please plan your routes accordingly and expect potential delays in the area. As you navigate through the construction zone, we urge you to drive

with caution and adhere to all signage and instructions provided by the construction crew.

This project is a collaborative effort between Precinct 4 and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), aimed at improving infrastructure and ensuring smoother transportation for the community. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this period of construction. Together, let’s work towards a safer and more efficient roadway for everyone. Stay safe on the roads!

several months, according to the charges. The weapons included a variety of handguns and rifles, according to the charges.

The indictment alleges the CDN is a Mexican criminal organization that engages in transnational crime including kidnapping, extortion, vehicle theft, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and money laundering. It is headquartered in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, and allegedly has influence over other Mexican cities. The CDN uses firearms of various calibers and capabilities to carry out and protect its operations, according to the charges.

For the conspiracy, each faces up to five years in federal prison, while smuggling goods from the United States carries a possible 10-year prison sentence. If convicted of trafficking firearms, they all also face additional sentences of up to 15 years as well as another 25 years for straw purchasing. The latter two are new charges under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw purchasing of firearms. All charges also carry potential fines of up to $250,000.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Laredo Police Department conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan L. Oliver is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

Javier Neira Garcia Named to All-WAC First Team

RIO GRANDE VALLEY

– The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros men’s golf team learned on Tuesday that senior Javier Neira Garcia is part of the All-Western Athletic Conference (WAC) First Team.

Garcia is coming off a fourth-place finish at the WAC Championship last week where he finished with a three-round score of even par 216 after posting rounds of 73, 72, and 71.

Garcia led the Vaqueros this season with a 71.9 stroke average as he carded 17 rounds of even par or better. Garcia also recorded the Vaqueros’ lone win of the season at The Big Texan, becoming UTRGV’s first individual winner since Henry Fisher (2016-20) won the Gulf Coast Intercollegiate in the spring of 2020.

Garcia etched his name into the program record book when he tied the program record for individual single round score with a 64 (-8) at The Big Texan. Garcia’s three-round score of 205 (69, 72, 64) at The Big Texan is the third lowest individual three-round score in program history and is one shy of the program record of 204 held by Armen Kirakossian (2006-10) and Manuel Inman (1998-99). 2024 WAC Men’s Golf Major Awards and All-Conference

Player of the Year: Nicky Kling, Sr., Grand Canyon

Freshman of the Year: Kevin Li, Seattle U Coach of the Year: Mark Mueller, Grand Canyon

All-Conference First Team

Nicky Kling, Sr., Grand Canyon

Tommaso Zorzetto, Sr., Grand Canyon

Kevin Li, Fr., Seattle U

Javier Neira Garcia, Sr., UTRGV

Dane Huddleston, Fr., Utah Valley

All-Conference Second Team

Zane Heusel, Gr., Abilene Christian

Fred Tindale, Gr., California Baptist

Matthew Pennington, Sr., Grand Canyon

Max Bengtsson, So., Tarleton State Daniel Cronje, Gr., UT Arlington

STC ALUM EARNS DOCTORATE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, CELEBRATES CLASS OF 2024

For veteran and South Texas College alumnus and tutor Jose Cruz, the journey to his true passion may not have always been a clear path, but once he found STC’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program, not only did he become a passionate health care professional, but he has also dedicated the last eight years tutoring at STC and guiding those that came after him.

Set to earn his doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Baylor University this December, he is ready to continue giving back to the community that watched him grow from migrant beginnings to excellence in patient care.

“Because I served in the military for five years, college wasn’t on my radar until I turned 27,” he recounted. “After my service in the Navy, I found myself lost, trying out different professions until I finally discovered where I truly belong.”

Brought to the United States from Mexico as a child, Cruz grew up in Weslaco, relying on jobs in fast food, retail and security to get

by after graduating from high school.

At 20 years old and with no clear goal in mind, he decided to enlist in the Navy.

“I loved my time in the Navy, I could have made a career out of it but, when they asked me to move to another position, I decided to come back home,” the 38-year-old shared.

He then spent five years working at the Hidalgo County Juvenile Boot Camp helping guide at-risk youth toward a better path. However, work was demanding and it eventually took its toll.

“I was tired of where I was and I needed a change. And that’s when I started thinking about school,” he said. “I explored several schools and STC was the most welcoming. From the first moment I stepped into STC’s Veteran’s Office, I felt taken care of. They literally walked me through everything, the entire process.”

Interested in Radiology Technology, Cruz started the program in January 2016.

“I love science and technology. My end goal was nuclear medicine, which I find

fascinating, but once I started doing clinical rotations, I realized it was not for me,” he said. “But that’s what’s so great about STC; there are so many options. So, Physical Therapist Assistant was my next shot.”

While observing a physical therapist work with a patient, observations are a requirement to be accepted into the program, he became intrigued by a group of people playing dominoes nearby, laughing and having a good time.

“Turns out, they were receiving Occupational Therapy,” he said. “It struck me how this simple activity was helping stroke patients with muscle weakness improve their reach and their cognitive skills. Seeing the joy it brought them, I knew I had found my calling. Shortly after, I sat down with the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program at STC and applied.”

To support himself financially as a fulltime student, Cruz applied for a part-time tutoring position at STC’s Center of Learning Excellence (CLE), a role he has cherished and

maintained ever since.

“I spent so much time at the CLE that one day they suggested, ‘Why don’t you just work here?’” Cruz recalled. “It’s brought me immense joy to assist countless students with their coursework, and once I became a licensed clinician, it became even more beneficial for everyone involved.”

Cruz graduated from the program in May 2018 and immediately entered the workforce, starting in pediatrics. Since then, he has gained valuable experience in various settings including nursing facilities, school districts, and in-patient hospitals, culminating in his current position at Edinburg Regional Medical Center.

“What I love about this field is that you’re not always limited to a medical setting. We can work with construction companies to help implement ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant homes or with businesses to implement proper ergonomics and prevent future employee injuries,” he explained. “We can also become private consultants, instructors in education or collaborate with transportation departments to assist disabled individuals in navigating transport. There are so many opportunities.”

While working part-time in his field and tutoring, Cruz also pursued a bachelor’s degree in Medical and Health Services Management at STC, graduating in 2021.

“STC has been amazing to me,” he said. “Every question I had was always answered. I’ve had dedicated instructors from my prerequisites to my bachelor’s program.”

He also shared his heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering support he received from his instructors during a particularly challenging time, when he lost his grandmother, the woman who raised him.

Excited to become a therapist and earn a doctorate, Cruz’s journey is far from over.

His next aspiration is to become a certified hand therapist, a challenging and extensive process that would distinguish him as one of only 6,000 in the United States, an achievement that would undoubtedly bring valuable expertise to the Rio Grande Valley.

“If I had stayed in the military, I would be three years away from retirement. However, my life may have taken a very different path”, he said. “I’m genuinely happy with the way things have worked out. I’ve had the opportunity to meet amazing instructors, classmates, coworkers and students. It’s been a wild ride, and while I may be leaving STC soon, I’m excited to embark on another amazing journey. It’s been an incredible experience.”

UTRGV SCHOOL OF MEDICINE TO CELEBRATE CLASS OF 2024

By Heriberto Perez–Zuñiga

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS– The UTRGV School of Medicine will hold its annual commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 4, to celebrate the graduating Class of 2024.

The ceremony marks the culmination of four years of hard work for graduates and their transition from students to medical professionals.

This cohort began its medical education journey four years ago, when the world was grappling with the disruptions and complexities brought on by the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite unprecedented challenges, the Class of ‘24 responded with resilience and determination, a testament to their commitment to the medical field.

To date, nearly 200 medical students have graduated from the UTRGV School of Medicine and embarked on residencies in the Rio Grande Valley, and across Texas and the country, matched with prestigious residency programs including Massachusetts General Hospital-Harvard; Duke University Medical Center; Cornell Medical Center; Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Johns Hopkins Hospital; Stanford Health; UT Southwestern Medical School and UT Austin Dell Medical School.

Valley native and medical student Prakhar Jain said he is proud to have been a part of the UTRGV School of Medicine’s Class of 2024 and is looking forward to the moment when he can walk across the stage as a new doctor.

“I can’t thank enough all the people who helped get me to this moment – my friends, family, and mentors who supported me and inspired my decision to pursue a career in healthcare,” Jain said. “Getting to make that walk across the stage is a dream come true.”

Jain encourages other Valley students to think about beginning their medical education journey.

“I grew up in McAllen and I saw the real need for medical professionals in the area,” Jain said. “The Valley has a unique population, and we need more doctors who can understand the needs and be part of the community.”

Dr. Michael Hocker, dean of the UTRGV School of Medicine and senior vice president for UT Health RGV, said the commencement ceremony stands as a testament to the School of Medicine’s contributions to growing the next generation of healthcare leaders, while also tackling the physician shortage in the state and region.

“For many students, the journey to graduation has been filled with great experiences but also some obstacles, including the uncertainties of the pandemic and the balancing act of school and family life,” Hocker said. “However, their perseverance has paid off, and these graduates are ready to embark on the next chapter of their medical careers. We are immensely proud of the Class of 2024 and are excited to witness the impact they will make transforming the health of the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.”

For more information on the UTRGV School of Medicine’s commencement, visit UTRGV.edu/SOMGrad.

CELEBRATE MOM AT OUR MOTHER’S DAY MARKET!

Join us for a heartwarming Mother’s Day celebration on May 11th from 5 pm to 9 pm at Tsunami Sushi, located at 2708 Cornerstone Blvd, Edinburg, Texas.

Let’s honor and spoil mom with a delightful shopping experience featuring over 50 small business vendors offering a variety of gifts and treats. Here’s what’s in store for you:

Shop from Over 50 Small Business Vendors: Treat mom to a shopping spree at our special Mother’s Day market! Explore a diverse selection of vendors offering everything from elegant jewelry to mouthwatering pastries, stylish boutiques, chic accessories, and more. Find the perfect gifts to show mom just how much she means to you.

Thoughtful Gifts for Mom: Discover unique and thoughtful gifts that mom will cherish forever. Whether it’s a sparkling piece of jewelry, a delicious treat, or a trendy accessory, find something that perfectly captures her style and personality.

Celebrate Mom’s Love: Spend quality time with mom and the whole family as you celebrate her unconditional love and devotion. Make her feel extra special on this memorable occasion and create cherished memories together.

An Evening of Love and Appreciation: Show mom how much she’s loved and appreciated with a heartwarming evening filled with shopping, laughter, and joy. Let her know just how much she means to you and how grateful you are for all that she does.

Join us at Tsunami Sushi for a Mother’s Day celebration she’ll never forget. Let’s make this day extra special for the incredible moms in our lives. See you there!

HONORING A HERO: FREDDY GONZALEZ LEGACY 5K RUN

Join us on Memorial Day weekend as we lace up our running shoes and come together to honor the remarkable legacy of Medal of Honor recipient Alfredo Cantu Gonzalez, affectionately known as Freddy. Organized by the American Legion Post 408, the “Freddy Gonzalez Legacy 5K Run” is more than just a race – it’s a heartfelt tribute to a hometown hero and a solemn remembrance of all those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

Freddy Gonzalez, a proud native of Edinburg, Texas, and an esteemed alumnus of Edinburg High School, embodied the values of courage, dedication, and selflessness. As we gather at Edinburg Municipal Park on May 25th from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., we’ll not only honor Freddy’s memory but also celebrate his enduring impact on our community and our country.

The 5K run will be a testament to Freddy’s spirit of resilience and determination, qualities that he exemplified both on and off the battlefield. As participants traverse the scenic route, they’ll be reminded of Freddy’s unwavering commitment to excellence and his profound love for his hometown.

But the “Freddy Gonzalez Legacy 5K Run” isn’t just for seasoned runners – it’s an event for the entire family to enjoy. After the main race, kids will have the opportunity to participate in their own race, ensuring that everyone can join in on the festivities.

To ensure a seamless experience, participants are encouraged to pick up their packet information by May 24th at the American Legion Post 408. The packet includes everything you need for race day, from shirts and finisher medals to chip timing for the 5K participants.

In addition to the physical challenge of the race, participants can also take pride in knowing that their registration fees support a worthy cause. With options for both the 5K and the 1K races, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

So let’s come together as a community, lace up our shoes, and run in unity to honor the legacy of Freddy Gonzalez – a true symbol of dedication, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of Edinburg. See you at the starting line as we pay tribute to a hero who will forever inspire us all.

YOUR KIDNEYS ... AND WHAT IT MEANS WHEN THINGS GO WRONG

You may not give much thought to your kidneys, but these two fist-sized, filtering organs play an important role in keeping the rest of your body in balance. Here’s how: Your kidneys are the first stop on your body’s urinary system. Blood flows to them from your heart via an artery. Once there, the blood passes through millions of tiny filters whose job is to remove waste and excess fluid. The separated waste then journeys to your bladder, by way of ureters, where it gets stored as urine. The now “clean” blood returns to your bloodstream through veins. This process does much more than just create urine. It also helps control the production of red blood cells in your body, releases hormones that help regulate blood pressure, makes vitamins that control growth, keeps important minerals in balance, and helps maintain bone health.

What is kidney disease?

Kidney disease, also known as renal disease, occurs when the kidneys become damaged and can’t function properly. Sometimes the damage is temporary. When that’s

the case, it’s known as acute kidney disease. However, when the damage occurs over a longer period of time, it’s known as chronic kidney disease (CKD). When kidney function is impaired, waste products and fluids can build up in the body, leading to complications like weakened bones and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Worsening kidney disease can result in kidney failure. At that point, either long-term dialysis or a kidney transplant is needed to take over the vital work of these all-important organs. Understanding your risk for kidney disease

According to the CDC, the most common causes of chronic kidney disease are:

• Diabetes - Uncontrolled diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, affecting their ability to filter waste.

• High blood pressure – Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their efficiency.

Additional risk factors include heart disease, family history, inherited kidney disorders, past damage to the kidneys, and older age.

To help keep the urinary system healthy:

• Drink enough fluids, especially water

• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight

• Eat plenty of high-fiber foods

• Use the washroom frequently and when needed. It’s also important to take the time to empty your bladder fully

Kidney disease is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on your health and quality of life. However, with early detection, proper management and needed lifestyle changes, it is possible to slow the progression of the disease and prevent complications.

If you have risk factors for kidney disease or experience symptoms that point to kidney problems, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Taking proactive steps to protect your kidney can go a long way towards good health now and in the future.

HEALTH ADVISORY: Test patients with symptoms consistent with Cyclospora infection

Summary

State health departments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug Administration are currently preparing for the annual Cyclospora outbreak season that runs from May to August. In 2023, Texas had more than 800 reported cases of cyclosporiasis with most cases occurring between May and August. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is advising healthcare providers to test patients for the parasite Cyclospora if they have a diarrheal illness lasting more than a few days or diarrhea accompanied by severe loss of appetite or fatigue and to report cases to their local health department.

Background

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite.

People can become infected with Cyclospora by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Persons of all ages are at risk of infection. Symptoms of cyclosporiasis usually begin 2 to 14 days after ingestion of Cyclospora eggs, or oocysts, in contaminated food or water. Watery diarrhea can persist for several weeks to a month or more, and affected patients may experience a return of symptoms after improvement. Additional symptoms may include anorexia (loss of appetite), fatigue, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, vomiting, and lowgrade fever.

Previous outbreaks have been associat-

ed with the consumption of fresh produce, including fresh cilantro, broccoli, Italian parsley, pre-packaged salad mix, raspberries, basil, snow peas, and mesclun lettuce. Avoiding food or water contaminated with feces is the best way to prevent cyclosporiasis.

Recommendations for Healthcare Providers

Clinicians should order testing for patients who have symptoms consistent with cyclosporiasis. They can submit stool specimens for “ova and parasite” testing with a modified acid-fast stain, modified safranin (“hot”) stain, and/or UV autofluorescence screen with specific orders for Cyclospora identification. Due to the intermittent shedding of the parasite, a single negative stool specimen does not exclude the diagnosis; three specimens taken at least 24 hours apart are optimal. Cyclospora may also be detected by molecular methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Rapid reporting to public health is essential to preventing additional cases of cyclosporiasis. Healthcare providers and laboratories are required to report confirmed cyclosporiasis cases to their respective local health departments within one week. DSHS asks that healthcare providers remain vigilant in surveillance and testing. Clinical specimens are encouraged to be submitted to the DSHS laboratory for confirmation.

Recommendations for the public

DSHS recommends washing hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing fruits and vegetables and thoroughly washing/scrubbing all fresh produce, cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and countertops. Consumers, retailers, and restaurants should be aware that washing may not eliminate all risk of transmission since Cyclospora can be difficult to remove from produce. Routine chemical disinfection or sanitizing methods are unlikely to kill the parasite. Cyclospora does not appear to spread through direct person-to-person contact.

CROSSWORDS

5/3/24 WHERE'S YOUR HOMEWORK?

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• Identify and pursue sales opportunities within the designated regions

2. AI toothbrush brand

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders

• Meet and exceed sales targets and objectives

3. Spaceflight firm founder

4. Final authority

Where "all the birds" were named

Cut out

Letters read on market reports

5. Digital approval

• Provide excellent customer service and support throughout the sales process

6. Undemanding

• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure seamless execution of sales strategies

7. Most Moroccans

• Proven track record of success in sales, preferably in the media industry

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills

• Strong organizational and time management abilities

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Willingness to travel within the designated regions

Lasting aftereffect

Turn down

Shaker __, OH