By now you have likely heard of the recent rise in Cyclospora infections in the US. Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can cause gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, cramps, and nausea. Infections can occur after consuming contaminated foods or water. While the exact source(s) of outbreak are still unknown and tracing food-borne illness outbreaks is incredibly hard, especially with reductions in CDC tracking requirements since last year, there are still steps we can take to stay safe and prevent illness:
- Wash hands with soap and warm water before and after handling raw fruits and vegetables.
- Thoroughly wash all produce; scrub firm items like melons with a clean brush.
- Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible as they are considered potentially hazardous.
- When in doubt, cook raw produce or boil tap water before consuming.
For more info, see the NYC Department of Health website: HERE