The Cyclospora parasite is lurking in your produce. Here’s how to avoid it
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora.
More than 500 people in New York have been diagnosed with cyclosporiasis since May, according to the state Department of Health.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora. Health officials say people can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite, which is often linked to fresh produce.
“It’s hard to tell exactly where it’s coming from,” said Dr. Adam Zimilover, an infectious disease physician at Montefiore Medical Center. “There’s nothing really to guarantee not getting this.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms typically begin about a week after exposure, though some people may never develop symptoms. Those who do can experience frequent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss.
“In most people who get this that are healthy, it usually does not cause hospitalization. We get most concerned with patients who are immunocompromised or elderly,” Zimilover said.
Doctors say the best way to lower your risk is by washing your hands frequently, thoroughly rinsing fruits and vegetables before eating them and cutting away any bruised or damaged areas of produce.
Anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea or other symptoms should contact a health care provider, especially if symptoms are severe or lead to dehydration.
