Where to Buy Fruits, Vegetables as Cyclospora Fears Extend Beyond Lettuce
Summary
A widespread outbreak of a parasite called cyclospora is linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce and has caused over 6,300 illnesses in 15 states, with some hospitalizations and deaths. Former CDC Director Robert Redfield advises people to buy local produce and be cautious about foods eaten raw to reduce the risk of infection.Key Facts
- The cyclospora outbreak is connected to recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico.
- More than 6,300 cases and 278 hospitalizations have been reported in 15 states; two deaths involved people with existing health issues.
- Nearly 23,000 cyclospora cases are either confirmed or under investigation nationwide.
- Cyclospora is a parasite that infects the small intestine, causing an illness called cyclosporiasis.
- People get infected by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite, often from human fecal matter.
- The parasite cannot be washed off produce once it is present, and it is hard to detect in food samples.
- Experts recommend buying local produce and eating fruits with protective skins or cooked foods to lower risk.
- The CDC advises avoiding recalled iceberg lettuce and following official food safety guidelines.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
