You probably have already seen numerous news stories and articles about the cyclosporiasis outbreak that is most notable for causing "explosive" diarrhea. The current focus is on it possibly spreading via leafy or uncooked vegetables. For instance, the Independent recently reported "Taco Bell now under investigation over outbreak of parasite that causes ‘explosive diarrhea,’ report says," noted that "several Taco Bell locations in Michigan last week warned customers that the restaurants were 'currently unable to sell Lettuce, Cilantro Onion, Pico de Gallo, and Guacamole due to a nationwide recall.'" It also explains:
Exposure to the Cyclospora parasite leads to cyclosporiasis, an infection with symptoms including “watery diarrhea” and “explosive bowel movements,” as well as fatigue, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting and a low-grade fever. It is rarely life-threatening. Cases have spiked over the past week in several states including Michigan, Illinois, Virginia, Ohio, and New York.
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Cyclospora is transmitted when people consume food or water contaminated with fecal matter, according to the CDC. While cyclosporiasis cases are reported year-round, they are most common from May 1 through August 31. Past outbreaks have been linked to raspberries, basil, cilantro and salad mixes.
“Most people with healthy immune systems will eventually recover from cyclosporiasis without treatment,” the CDC website states. “However, if not treated, you may be sick for anywhere from a few days to a month or longer.”
Symptoms may take two weeks or longer to appear, and some people remain asymptomatic — factors that can make the source of an outbreak difficult to pinpoint.
But it isn't just any fecal matter that spreads the parasite, but human feces.
The video below addresses the implications that Cyclospora only comes from human feces as well as offering some steps to take to prevent an infection. It is not enough to wash contaminated vegetables; and the parasite does not appear to be affected by freezing. Rather, the only way to make contaminated food safe to eat is by cooking the food.
VIDEO: "This Parasite Spreads Through Human Poop (How to Stay Safe)"
Neal K. Shah (21 min.)
I only buy and consume fresh produce during the Winter months. Why? Because the label says "Product of Mexico" on it. Yes, I've found Mexican veggies to be higher quality and I've never gotten sick from it. I can't say the same for USA produce as this news story so well illustrates.
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