Today I’d like to share an important health update about Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that is causing an increasing number of illnesses across the United States.

Although investigators are still working to identify the current source, previous outbreaks have most often been linked to fresh produce rather than meat or dairy products. Foods associated with past outbreaks include fresh basil, cilantro, leafy greens, bagged salads, raspberries, other berries, raw vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Symptoms of Cyclospora

Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure and may include:

• Profuse, watery, sometimes explosive diarrhea
• Severe abdominal cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

One important characteristic of Cyclospora is that it typically does not resolve within 24 hours. Symptoms may come and go for several weeks if left untreated.

How to Reduce Your Risk

You can lower your risk by following several simple food safety practices:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after preparing food.
• Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water.
• Remove damaged outer leaves from produce when appropriate.
• Cook produce whenever possible.

It’s also important to know that alcohol-based hand sanitizers and many produce rinses do not reliably kill Cyclospora, making proper washing especially important.

Treatment

The good news is that Cyclospora infection is treatable.