4 Things to Know About Cyclospora and the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

As we enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables this summer and beyond, awareness and education—not alarm—is our most valuable public health tool. Cyclospora outbreaks remind us that food safety is a shared responsibility involving agriculture, food producers, public health agencies, medical and clinical laboratories, healthcare providers, and consumers. Learn more about this condition and the prevention strategies you can use to keep yourself safe.  

 Cyclospora enters food when raw produce comes into contact with feces-contaminated water or soil. Unlike many bacterial foodborne illnesses, cyclospora infections (cyclosporiasis) often produce symptoms that can last for weeks if left untreated.

The most common symptom is profuse watery diarrhea, often accompanied by abdominal cramping, nausea, fatigue, bloating, loss of appetite and weight loss. Some patients experience symptoms that improve, only to return days later. Fortunately, most healthy people recover completely with appropriate treatment, but dehydration and prolonged illness can be especially concerning for older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

The parasite requires time outside the human body to mature into its infectious form. That means contamination usually occurs before food reaches your kitchen. Often, somewhere along the agricultural supply chain, through contaminated irrigation water, produce washing, or environmental contamination.

Fresh produce such as cilantro, basil, leafy greens, raspberries, and salad mixes have all been linked to previous outbreaks because these foods are commonly eaten raw and receive little or no cooking that would destroy the parasite.

Carefully washing produce at home helps reduce risk but it cannot guarantee complete removal of the parasite, as cyclospora organisms can adhere tightly to the surface of fruits and vegetables.

Cyclospora infections occur every year in the United States, particularly during the spring and summer months. While several states have reported an increased number of cases this season, investigators are still determining whether they represent one outbreak or multiple unrelated events.

For most people, the risk remains relatively low. However, anyone who develops persistent watery diarrhea lasting more than a few days, especially after eating fresh produce, should seek medical evaluation.

Unlike many viral stomach illnesses, cyclospora can be diagnosed through specialized stool testing and is treatable with prescription antibiotics when appropriate.

• Wash hands thoroughly before preparing or eating food.

• Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before consumption.

• Refrigerate perishable produce promptly.

• Stay informed about food recalls and public health advisories.

• Seek medical care if prolonged diarrhea develops, particularly if accompanied by dehydration or significant fatigue.

One important reminder is that people should avoid assuming every case of diarrhea is "just a stomach bug." Modern medical and clinical laboratories play an essential role in distinguishing viruses, bacteria, and parasites so that patients receive the appropriate treatment.