The Growing Threat of Cyclospora: What You Need to Know

The recent surge in cyclospora cases has left many wondering about the safety of their produce. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 7,000 cases have been confirmed or are under investigation across 34 states since May 1. The CDC reports that the majority of cases are linked to eating lettuce or salad greens, particularly precut or packaged items.

In Michigan, which has been hit the hardest, health officials have identified an outbreak that has risen to more than 4,000 cases, with cases also reported in Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. While a specific source has not been identified, Michigan health officials believe that lettuce or salad greens may be the culprit. As a result, they urge shoppers to be extra cautious when purchasing and eating these items this summer.

'Cyclospora is a very interesting organism,' explains Dr. Nuwan Gunawardhana, a hospital epidemiologist and physician at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 'It's a parasite, so it's historically been linked to outbreaks in the past, usually foodborne outbreaks.' Dr. Gunawardhana notes that while it's not contagious from person to person, cyclospora is a hardy organism that can adhere to fresh produce and fruit surfaces, making it a major concern for food safety.

The parasite can cause a range of symptoms, including prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration and, in rare instances, hospitalization. 'Those most at risk are young children, elderly individuals, and immunosuppressed people,' warns Dr. Dan Barouch, director of the Center for Virology and Vaccine Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. 'In most other healthy people, disease is often mild, but it makes sense to take precautions, particularly for people at higher risk.'

So, what can you do to stay safe? When shopping for lettuce or other greens, experts recommend avoiding precut or packaged items and opting for whole, uncut produce instead. This reduces the risk of contamination, as these items undergo less handling. Bagged salad mixes and kits have been linked to previous cyclospora outbreaks, so it's best to err on the side of caution.

'It's probably a good idea to avoid bagged lettuce products and bagged salad products for now, and if those are desired, to rewash them at home, even if they come prewashed,' advises Dr. Barouch. 'You really do need to wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.' The CDC agrees, stating that chemically disinfecting or sanitizing produce may not fully eliminate cyclospora.

To thoroughly wash produce, experts recommend following these steps: 'Rinse produce under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Scrub firm-skinned fruits and vegetables with a vegetable brush to remove dirt and other contaminants. For leafy greens and herbs, gently submerge them in a bowl of cold water and swish them around to release any dirt or debris. Then, drain and spin the water from the greens to remove excess moisture.'

The importance of proper washing cannot be overstated,' emphasizes Dr. Gwen Biggerstaff, CDC's deputy director of CDC's Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases. 'When combined with cooking or peeling, thorough washing enhances protection against foodborne illnesses. Prioritize cooking foods to an internal temperature of 158 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, as this will kill the parasite. Heat can destroy cyclospora, making cooked vegetables a safer option than raw produce.'

Lastly, food safety experts remind us that preventing cross-contamination in the kitchen is crucial. Keep unwashed produce separate from ready-to-eat foods and raw meat, poultry, or seafood. Wash your hands frequently, and clean any work surfaces to prevent the spread of the parasite. By taking these precautions and staying informed, you can minimize your risk of becoming infected and stay safe during this cyclospora outbreak.