As health officials are trying to identify the source of a nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak, experts are urging Americans to be extra cautious with specific produce items linked to past parasite contamination.
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,600 cases of explosive diarrhoea have been confirmed, with over 5,000 additional infections under verification.
Michigan alone has recorded over 2,600 cases, prompting state officials to investigate lettuce as a possible cause.
So far, on the basis of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Outbreak Database, the following produce items have been identified as connected to previous cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the U.S. and Canada:
- Bagged salad mixes and kits
- Romaine and leaf lettuce
- Fresh herbs: Cilantro, basil, and parsley
- Berries: Raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries
- Green onions and onions
- Green peas and snow peas
- Carrots and celery
- Tomato salad and zucchini
Fruits and vegetables with peels or rinds, including bananas, oranges, kiwis, and watermelons, are considered comparatively safe options as long as they are washed before cutting.
For improved safety, wash all produce thoroughly under running water, even pre-washed items. Scrub firm produce such as melons and cucumbers with a clean brush and refrigerate cut or peeled produce within two hours. To kill parasites, cook fruits and vegetables to an internal temperature of 158°F.
2026-07-15 20:03:00
