Cyclosporiasis is a stomach and intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite known as Cyclospora cayetanensis. This parasite can enter your system through contaminated food or water, often linked to imported produce.
Outbreaks in the U.S. often happen during warmer months, but the risk is largely tied to food sources rather than the season itself. Here’s what you need to know, and what you can do to protect yourself and family.
What is cyclosporiasis?
Once infected with the parasite, people might experience symptoms like watery diarrhea, bloating, stomach pain, nausea and a general lack of energy. For some, these symptoms can come and go, making it hard to pinpoint the cause, but they can persist for weeks if not addressed.
“What makes cyclosporiasis particularly tricky is that it’s not something you can prevent just by washing your hands or cooking food thoroughly,” says Prachi Singh, DO, a primary care provider at Mount Nittany Health. “This parasite clings to certain types of produce, especially those that are eaten raw, like leafy greens and fresh berries.”
If untreated, cyclosporiasis can lead to dehydration and other complications, so it’s important to recognize the symptoms early. If you think you may have it, reaching out to a primary care provider is a good first step.
Sources of cyclosporiasis
While not common, this illness highlights the importance of knowing where your food comes from and how it’s handled before it reaches your plate.
Cyclospora contamination in produce often starts at the source, particularly in areas where the parasite is more common. Fresh fruits and vegetables can become contaminated if they are irrigated or washed with water that contains Cyclospora. Additionally, poor sanitation practices during harvesting, packaging or transport can introduce or spread the parasite. This is especially concerning with imported produce, as some regions may have less stringent food safety regulations.
“Certain types of produce, like leafy greens, fresh herbs such as cilantro and berries, are more frequently linked to Cyclospora outbreaks,” says Singh. “These items are often consumed raw, which means they don’t go through a cooking process that could kill the parasite.”
Contamination can happen at multiple points along the way, whether in the field, during transportation or while being processed for packaging.
Benefits of eating local produce
Eating local produce offers several advantages beyond just freshness and taste. One of the key benefits is a shorter supply chain, which means your food passes through fewer hands before it reaches your table.
This can significantly lower the chance of contamination compared to imported produce that travels long distances and goes through multiple processing steps. Additionally, local farmers often take pride in maintaining higher quality and safety standards for their crops, giving you greater confidence in what you’re eating.
Visiting farmers’ markets is an excellent way to support local farmers and access fresh, seasonal produce. By choosing local options, you’re also reducing the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation, such as the use of fossil fuels.
How to protect yourself from cyclosporiasis
Properly handling produce is key to reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses like cyclosporiasis. Start by rinsing fruits and vegetables under cold running water, even if you plan to peel them. For items with firm surfaces, such as cucumbers or melons, use a clean produce brush to scrub away dirt. Avoid using soap or chemical cleaners, as they are not intended for food and can leave harmful residues.
When preparing meals, keep raw produce separate from raw meat, poultry or seafood to prevent cross-contamination. Use clean cutting boards, utensils and countertops for each type of food and wash them thoroughly after use. Refrigerating perishable items, such as berries and leafy greens, can also help maintain their freshness and safety until you’re ready to eat them.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the full benefits of fresh, nutritious food while keeping your household safe and healthy.
