Where Does Cyclospora Parasite Come From? How to Protect Yourself
Summary
Cyclospora, a parasite that causes intestinal illness, has infected thousands in the United States. It spreads through contaminated food and water, especially fresh produce, and requires food safety measures at farms and processing to prevent outbreaks.Key Facts
- Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite causing cyclosporiasis, leading to severe diarrhea and other intestinal symptoms.
- Symptoms usually start about a week after consuming contaminated food or water and may last weeks or months if untreated.
- The parasite spreads through food or water contaminated with human feces but cannot spread directly from person to person.
- In 2024, the CDC has confirmed 1,645 domestic cases and is investigating over 5,100 possible cases of cyclosporiasis in the U.S.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables eaten raw, like cilantro, basil, lettuce, and berries, are often linked to Cyclospora outbreaks.
- The parasite takes one to two weeks in the environment to become infectious, meaning contamination happens before food reaches consumers.
- Food safety measures at farms, such as clean water and good hygiene during harvesting and processing, are crucial to controlling Cyclospora.
- Routine lab tests may not detect Cyclospora, so specialized testing is needed for prolonged diarrhea cases.
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