A microscopic parasite called Cyclospora is making people sick across several US states this summer, prompting health officials to urge Americans to thoroughly wash fresh fruits and vegetables before eating them — particularly berries, herbs, and salad greens.

Cases Surging in Michigan and New York

Michigan, which typically records around 50 cases of cyclosporiasis per year, has reported nearly 600 cases as of July 4, according to the state’s Department of Health and Human Services — a dramatic spike that has drawn attention from federal health officials. New York state, excluding New York City, has logged 107 cases since May 1, against an annual statewide average of 500 to 700 cases.

Nationally, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 145 confirmed cases across 17 states between May 1 and June 16, with at least 20 of those individuals hospitalized. Michigan’s recent surge is not included in the CDC’s running total. Federal and state officials say there is currently no evidence linking all cases to a single multistate outbreak, and investigations to identify potential clusters and contamination sources are ongoing.

How Cyclospora Spreads

Cyclosporiasis is caused by a single-cell parasite carried in human feces. The pathogen contaminates crops when feces-tainted water is used for irrigation, and once on plants, begins to multiply in the warm, humid conditions of farm fields, said Dr. David Freedman, professor emeritus of infectious diseases at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

While Cyclospora is often associated with international travel, the CDC said the cases currently under investigation did not involve travel in the two weeks prior to illness — suggesting domestic produce sources are the likely culprit.

No specific food has been identified as the source of the current outbreaks, but Freedman said two categories of produce have historically driven Cyclospora cases most often: fresh herbs such as cilantro and basil used raw in salads or as garnishes, and fresh berries and melons — including strawberries, blueberries, and cantaloupe — that grow close to the ground in open fields.

Heat Kills It, But Summer Eating Habits Create Risk

The Cyclospora parasite raw produce contamination risk is especially pronounced in summer, when warmer weather encourages people to eat more uncooked fruits and vegetables and to avoid turning on the stove. Heat kills the parasite reliably, meaning cooking fresh produce eliminates the risk — but raw consumption does not.

Thorough washing with large amounts of running water is the most effective prevention measure for raw produce. “Just the act of washing it with a lot of water is certainly going to get the organisms off of there,” Freedman said. He also recommended thorough handwashing and cleaning of kitchen counters and cutting surfaces.

One important caveat: bleach does not kill the parasite. Disinfectant wipes used at picnics or on the go will not provide protection. Handwashing with soap and water followed by an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is the safer approach.

Symptoms and When to Seek Care

Symptoms of Cyclospora infection typically appear two to 14 days after consuming contaminated food and include frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, and a low-grade fever. The illness can be prolonged and debilitating if left untreated.

Staying hydrated and replacing lost electrolytes with drinks such as Gatorade or Pedialyte is important for those who become ill. Freedman advised seeking medical attention promptly for anyone experiencing severe diarrhea accompanied by fever. Cyclosporiasis is treated with a course of antibiotics, making early diagnosis important for a faster recovery.

Author: Staff Writer | Edited for WTFwire.com | SOURCE: CNN