The recent nationwide increase in diarrhea-inducing cyclosporiasis has raised concerns about contaminated produce. Virginia hasn’t been identified as part of the outbreak, but more than 1,600 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported across 34 states this year, according to the New York Times.
Federal investigators have linked cases to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants. Taylor Farms de Mexico has voluntarily recalled products containing iceberg lettuce. Officials are warning people not to eat lettuce from Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, where most cases have been reported.
What is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite, says Dr. Meredith Porter, medical director of Inova-GoHealth Urgent Care. While cases occur year-round, Porter says the majority of cases are typically reported during spring and summer months.
People become infected after consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. The illness spreads through the fecal-oral route. “This illness is not directly spread from person to person because it needs time in the environment before it gets to an infectious state,” Porter says.
After an infected person sheds the parasite’s eggs, called oocysts, they must mature in the environment for one to two weeks before it can spread. Most people begin developing symptoms about a week after exposure, though the incubation period can range from two to 14 days.
The illness often resembles other foodborne infections. It can cause abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, low-grade fever, and weight loss. The symptom that sets cyclospora apart, Porter says, is “unfortunately, prolonged, protracted, and profuse watery diarrhea.”
For some people — especially those with healthy immune systems — symptoms resolve after several days. Others may remain sick for weeks or months, with symptoms disappearing before returning again.
How is Cyclosporiasis Treated?
Many people diagnosed with cyclosporiasis recover without treatment, especially if symptoms are mild and they are able to stay hydrated.
People who are unable to stay hydrated due to persistent vomiting or diarrhea, as well as older adults, young children, and people with weakened immune systems, should seek medical care promptly, Porter says. Those who have recently travelled to areas experiencing an outbreak should consider being evaluated sooner.
Diagnosing the illness requires a specialized stool test. Once diagnosed, the infection is treated with an antibiotic for seven to 10 days.
How to Stay Safe
Although the ongoing investigation has renewed attention to produce safety, Porter says there is no need to stop eating fresh produce. Instead, she recommends following basic food safety practices. These include thoroughly washing produce, maintaining good hand hygiene, and cooking produce when possible.
“Don’t stop eating fruit and vegetables, just be cautious with how you prepare food,” Porter sys. “If you can peel it and if you can cook it, do so as that can help reduce infection.”
While washing won’t eliminate the parasite completely, it can help reduce contamination. Porter also suggests avoiding pre-bagged greens and discarding the outer layers of whole lettuce heads.
Above all, Porter says not everyone experiencing symptoms needs to seek medical care. For people whose symptoms are mild and begin to improve, staying home, resting, and focusing on hydration is the best course of action.
Feature image, freshidea/adobe.stock.com
