Health officials are investigating a recent outbreak of Cyclospora, a foodborne parasite that has caused illnesses across multiple states. While the investigation continues, knowing what Cyclospora is, how it spreads, and what symptoms to watch for can help protect you and your family. We sat down with Dr. Kiskila to ask him a few questions.
Question: There’s been a lot of news about Cyclospora lately. What exactly is it?
Dr. Kiskila: Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can contaminate food or water, most commonly fresh produce. After someone eats contaminated food, symptoms usually don’t begin for about a week, which can make it difficult to determine where the infection came from. The good news is that it is treatable, especially when it’s recognized early.
Question: What symptoms should people watch for?
Dr. Kiskila: The most common symptom is watery diarrhea that lasts for several days or even weeks. People may also experience stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, weight loss, and dehydration. Some people improve for a few days before symptoms return.
Question: Is Cyclospora easy to diagnose?
Dr. Kiskila: Not always. Cyclospora doesn’t typically show up on routine stool testing, so your healthcare provider may need to order a specialized stool test if it’s suspected. That’s why it’s important to tell your provider if you’ve had persistent diarrhea or recently ate fresh produce that could have been contaminated.
Question: Who is at the highest risk for becoming seriously ill?
Dr. Kiskila: Anyone can get Cyclospora, but we worry most about young children, older adults, pregnant women, and anyone with a weakened immune system. These individuals are more likely to become extremely dehydrated or have symptoms that last longer.
Question: Should families stop eating fruits and vegetables?
Dr. Kiskila: Absolutely not. Fruits and vegetables remain an important part of a healthy diet. Instead of avoiding produce altogether, focus on making smart choices while health officials continue investigating the outbreak. Wash produce thoroughly under running water, avoid any recalled products, and continue following safe food handling practices. Though you can’t wash off a parasite, you can heat berries or cook vegetables to 158 F to kill the parasite altogether.
Question: If you were grocery shopping for your own family right now, what fruits would you choose?
Dr. Kiskila: Personally, I’d lean toward fruits that have a natural protective peel or require less handling before they’re eaten. Some of my go-to choices would include:
- Raisins
- Apples
- Freeze-dried fruit
- Unsweetened dried fruit such as mangoes, dates, apricots, and figs
- Fruit strips made with 100% fruit and no added sugar
- Oranges
- Mandarins
- Bananas
- Grapefruit
- Mangoes
- Unsweetened fruit and veggie pouches with no added sugar
These aren’t guaranteed to prevent illness, but they are options I’d feel comfortable serving my own family while the investigation continues.
Question: What about buying local produce?
Dr. Kiskila: Buying from local farms or farmers’ markets may reduce the number of handling and processing steps before food reaches your table, but local produce isn’t automatically safer. No matter where you buy your produce, wash it thoroughly, refrigerate it promptly, and stay informed about any recalls issued by the FDA or CDC.
Question: When should someone seek medical care?
Dr. Kiskila: If you have diarrhea lasting more than two to three days, severe stomach pain, signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination, bloody diarrhea, or symptoms that improve and then return, it’s time to be evaluated. At Marque, our providers can assess your symptoms, determine whether specialized testing is appropriate, help treat dehydration, and recommend the right treatment if Cyclospora is suspected.
Question: What’s the biggest takeaway for families?
Dr. Kiskila: Don’t panic. The good news is that Cyclospora infections are treatable, and most people recover fully with appropriate care. Continue eating a healthy diet, practice good food safety habits, stay informed about recalls, and listen to your body. If symptoms persist, don’t wait to seek medical care. Early evaluation and treatment can help you recover faster and prevent complications.
Favorite Platform
New Content
