Recent increases in cyclosporiasis cases have raised concerns among public health officials, especially during the warmer months when fresh produce is widely consumed. While most healthy people recover with proper treatment, the infection can cause prolonged diarrhea and other unpleasant symptoms if left untreated.
Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk.
What Is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People become infected by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite.
Unlike many foodborne illnesses, Cyclospora usually does not spread directly from one person to another because the parasite must first mature in the environment before becoming infectious.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms usually begin about 2 to 14 days after exposure.
They may include:
- Frequent watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Gas
- Fatigue
- Mild fever
- Weight loss
Without treatment, symptoms may come and go for several weeks or even months.
Foods Most Commonly Linked to Cyclospora
Outbreak investigations have associated Cyclospora with several types of fresh produce, including:
- Bagged salad mixes
- Romaine lettuce
- Spinach
- Cilantro
- Basil
- Parsley
- Green onions
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Snow peas
- Sugar snap peas
These foods are healthy and nutritious, but they should be handled carefully, especially if public health agencies have announced a recall or outbreak.
How Does Food Become Contaminated?
Cyclospora can contaminate produce through:
- Contaminated irrigation water
- Poor sanitation during farming
- Contaminated wash water
- Improper handling during harvesting or packaging
Because the parasite is microscopic, contaminated produce often looks, smells, and tastes completely normal.