Health authorities are urging caution when consuming raw produce such as salads, herbs and berries as infections from a diarrhea-causing parasite spread across the United States.
According to a recent CNN report, cases of Cyclospora, a parasite transmitted through produce, are rising rapidly in the U.S.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said a total of 145 infections were confirmed across 17 states between May 1 and June 16. Although not included in the CDC tally, Michigan alone has reported approximately 600 cases this year — nearly six times the typical level.
The CDC explained that an increase in Cyclospora infections during the summer is not unusual. However, because this year's rise is steeper than in previous years, federal and state health authorities are tracing the source of the infections.
Cyclospora is a parasite that infects humans through contaminated water or food. "Once the parasite attaches to produce, it can multiply in the humid environment of farms," said Dr. David Freedman, an infectious disease expert.
No specific food has been confirmed as the source of the outbreak so far. However, experts suspect produce that is eaten uncooked, such as basil, various herbs and berries. Because Cyclospora is vulnerable to heat, thorough cooking can lower the risk of infection, but foods eaten raw, like salads, require relatively more caution.
Infection can cause diarrhea, loss of appetite and a low-grade fever. Symptoms can appear as early as two days and as late as 14 days after consuming contaminated food. "Replenish fluids and electrolytes sufficiently, and seek medical care immediately if diarrhea is severe or accompanied by a high fever," Freedman advised.
The CDC said, "Storing fruits and vegetables cold as part of food management can help kill the parasite."
To prevent infection, it is important to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating. Hands should be washed carefully with soap, and kitchen tools such as cutting boards and countertops should be kept clean.
Experts pointed out that bleach or wet wipes alone are not enough to fully remove Cyclospora. Washing hands before and after cooking, cleaning ingredients and maintaining kitchen hygiene are the basic preventive measures, they explained.
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