Don’t skip fruits and veggies amid cyclosporiasis outbreak, but take precautions, expert advises

As cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasite that causes watery, explosive diarrhea, continue to rise, health officials stress the importance of not avoiding fresh fruits and vegetables, where the parasite can be found. In fact, Montgomery County Health Officer Dr. Amira Khan emphasizes, 'Eating a balanced diet rich in fresh produce is crucial for maintaining overall health.' However, she also advises taking precautions to minimize the risk of infection.

More than 30 states have reported cyclospora infections this year, surpassing the record U.S. mark of about 4,700 set in 2019. The surge in cases has been a cause for concern, but fortunately, no deaths resulting from cyclosporiasis have been reported. Yet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that the exact source of the cyclospora parasite remains unclear.

'The type of foods that we typically eat in the summer, and it likes to hide in those nooks and crannies,' Dr. Khan explains, pointing out the common food sources of the parasite, including cilantro, leafy greens, blackberries, and raspberries. While it's essential to note that the parasite doesn't thrive in extreme temperatures, the ongoing summer season has created an ideal environment for its growth.

Some consumers might consider cutting fresh fruits and vegetables from their diet to avoid symptoms of the illness. However, Dr. Khan strongly advises against this approach. 'It's still essential to eat those fruits and vegetables,' she reiterates. 'We want people to stay healthy, and one of the best ways to do that is eating your fresh fruits and vegetables.'

To mitigate the risk of infection, Dr. Khan recommends an extra wash of produce. According to the CDC's website, 'Routine chemical disinfection or sanitization of food or water is unlikely to kill Cyclospora.' Nonetheless, thorough hand-washing, especially after handling raw produce, is crucial for preventing the spread of the parasite.

Cooking can kill the parasite, and incorporating more cooked fruits and vegetables (think spinach or kale) can reduce your risk. Cooking fruits or veggies to a temperature at or above 158°F is recommended for effective eradication. Additionally, reheating cooked foods to an internal temperature of 165°F can also help safeguard against cyclosporiasis.

When the illness does strike, it can be challenging to determine the source of the infection, as symptoms often don't appear until one to two weeks after consuming contaminated food. Dr. Khan cautions, 'It can be important to just try and be mindful, pay attention. If you're having, if you're eating out, eating a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, to try and think about where they came from.'

The ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak serves as a critical reminder of the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices, especially when consuming raw or undercooked produce. As the CDC continues to monitor the situation and collaborate with state health authorities to update numbers, Dr. Khan emphasizes, 'Staying informed and vigilant will help us better understand this outbreak, and ultimately, prevent future occurrences.'

The cyclosporiasis outbreak is a pressing public health issue that demands attention and collective action from individuals, healthcare providers, and government agencies. Dr. Khan asserts, 'Together, we can make a difference, and ensure that Americans have access to safe and nutritious food.' It's a call to action that resonates with many, and underscores the significance of cyclosporiasis prevention and control efforts across the nation.

Outbreak data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are significantly lagging state-reported totals. On the CDC's cyclosporiasis surveillance website, the agency states it is 'aware that states are likely to report higher case counts of cyclosporiasis than reflected in CDC data and is working closely with states to update numbers as additional cases are confirmed.' As the situation continues to unfold, the accuracy of data collection is essential for effective management and mitigation strategies.

The cyclosporiasis outbreak has been an evolving public health crisis, with its peak occurring during the summer months. However, with winter approaching, the risk of cyclosporiasis will persist until the cyclospora parasite's prevalence subsides. Thus, it's essential to remain vigilant, especially as cooler temperatures set in, potentially providing ideal conditions for its growth.

The exact causes of cyclosporiasis are multifaceted and complex. The ongoing investigation by state and federal health authorities aims to identify key risk factors contributing to the rise in infections. As new evidence emerges, it may lead to targeted interventions aimed at reducing transmission risk.