The Cyclospora outbreak has many people wondering what they should do with lettuce and other types of fresh produce. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), investigation of the current nation-wide outbreak is ongoing. Iceberg lettuce grown in Mexico is believed to be a primary source of the outbreak. Another outbreak in North Carolina has recently been reported but source of the contaminated produce What is Cyclospora? Cyclospora is a parasite spread by consuming food or water contaminated with human feces. According to the CDC, if someone consumes food or water contaminated with Cyclospora, illness (called cyclosporiasis) can appear anywhere from 2 to 14 days or even longer. Symptoms of cyclosporiasis vary from person to person and can include stomach cramps, watery diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, and headache. People infected with Cyclospora may experience symptoms, begin to feel better, then often experience symptoms again. Cyclosporiasis is treatable with the correct antibiotics.
Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis are not uncommon and often peak during the summer months. They typically involve fresh produce such as lettuce, basil, cilantro, parsley, and berries.
Preventing Cyclospora at home How can consumers reduce their risk for becoming infected with Cyclospora? Jenna Anding, PhD, RDN, Professor and Extension Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service offers the following tips:
