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Miss. (WDAM) – It’s been around for decades, but cyclosporiasis has been making headlines recently in several states across more than 30 states, including Mississippi
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it’s a foodborne illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite that targets the small intestine
Symptoms usually include frequent and often explosive diarrhea, as well as cramping and nausea
“Some of the things we can do, first and foremost, is wash our hands, [with] soap and water, before handling any food and after handling any food,” Laurie McCarty said
McCarty is the clinical nutrition coordinator at Forrest General Hospital
She said the illness is mainly being linked to fresh produce, including lettuce and certain herbs and fruit
“Do a head of lettuce instead of the pre-bagged lettuce, and when you do the head of lettuce, make sure you are removing those outer layers and discarding those and rinsing between each of those lettuce layers there,” McCarty said
McCarty said it’s best to wash firm fruits and vegetables under running water and avoid soap and other cleaning agents. She said these products are no more effective than water at removing the parasite
“It is also recommended not just to rinse them really well, but to also use a produce scrub brush to make sure we’re really getting that outside layer clean,” McCarty said
The CDC recommends heating food to a temperature of at least 158°F to kill the parasite
Canned produce is also an alternative
“They’re flash-frozen, so you’re still getting the nutrient density of your fresh produce, and you have so much variety,” McCarty said
McCarty encouraged the public to ask questions if they’re concerned, including at restaurants
“Talking with the manager and finding out what precautions and safety measures that they’re taking at their particular facility,” McCarty said
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