Officials Advise Extra Care With Fresh Produce
Public health officials are urging consumers to be cautious when preparing fresh fruits and vegetables as investigators continue working to identify the source of a Cyclospora outbreak.
Washing and Peeling Recommended
Recommended precautions include removing the outer layers of head lettuce and rinsing produce under cold running water. Officials also advise peeling fruits and vegetables when possible to reduce potential exposure.
Shoppers React Differently to the Risk
Concern among consumers has varied. Teresa Pfeffer of Northeast Philadelphia said she avoids pre-packaged lettuce and prefers to buy fresh lettuce that she washes herself, so she is not especially worried.
Some Families Change Their Habits
Other shoppers have made changes while the investigation continues. Mike Murphy of Bensalem said his household usually eats salad with every dinner, but has stopped doing so for now.
No Local Spike Reported in New Jersey or Philadelphia
Public health officials in New Jersey and Philadelphia said they have not seen a local surge in cases. Michigan, however, has reported more than 450 new cyclosporiasis infections since Monday, according to state health officials.
No Deaths Reported
No deaths have been reported in connection with the outbreak. Health officials continue to monitor the situation as they investigate the source of the infections.
What Cyclospora Can Cause
Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause intestinal illness. Symptoms may not appear until as long as two weeks after a person consumes contaminated food.
Common Symptoms Include Digestive Illness
Dr. Akhil Vaidya, a distinguished professor and director of the Center for Molecular Parasitology at Drexel’s College of Medicine, said nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are major symptoms associated with the illness.
Treatment and Testing Are Available
Vaidya said cyclosporiasis can be confirmed through testing and is treatable. He noted that antibiotics can work against the illness, including one called Bactrim.
Low-Growing Produce May Face Higher Risk
Vaidya also said produce that grows close to the ground can face greater risk of contamination from fecal matter, which is one reason leafy greens are receiving attention during the investigation.
How to Handle Lettuce More Safely
Kaitlin Pander, a registered dietitian and nutritionist with Penn State University, said consumers should remove and discard the first couple of layers of lettuce, then wash the remaining leaves. She said separating the leaves helps water reach the spaces between them.
Washing Helps but Is Not Perfect
Pander emphasized that washing produce is useful, but no method is completely effective. The goal is to reduce risk while continuing to handle fresh foods carefully.
Experts Do Not Advise Avoiding Produce
Health experts are not recommending that people eliminate fruits and vegetables from their diets because of Cyclospora concerns. Fresh produce remains an important part of regular meals.
Temporary Alternatives for Concerned Consumers
For shoppers who remain worried, Pander said canned or frozen vegetables can be used temporarily until more information is available. She also said cooking fruits and vegetables to 158 degrees is a safe option.
Investigation Continues
As officials work to identify the source of the outbreak, consumers are being encouraged to follow careful food preparation steps, monitor public health updates and seek medical guidance if symptoms develop after possible exposure.
