Warning About Raw Produce This July 4th

This July 4th weekend, it might be wise to reassess that fresh salad or those enticing raw berries.

A parasite that taints raw produce and leads to severe, prolonged episodes of diarrhea is making people ill across various states.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 145 cases have been reported across 17 states from May 1 to June 16. At least 20 individuals have been hospitalized.

The CDC notes that it’s normal for these cases to spike in the summer, yet several states are observing a significantly sharp increase.

In Michigan, for instance, where they usually see around 50 cases a year, there have been at least 170 cases reported in just nine days, clustered in seven counties. Interestingly, these numbers don’t seem to be reflected in the CDC’s overall count.

New York State, outside the city, has recorded 107 cases since May, while annual totals typically range from 500 to 700 cases statewide.

Health officials at both federal and state levels are indicating that there is currently no solid evidence linking these cases to a common multistate outbreak. Investigations are still underway to pinpoint potential clusters and sources of the illness.

Cyclosporiasis is triggered by a single-celled parasite that resides in human feces. It contaminates food when water mixed with feces splashes onto crops. Under the humid conditions of a farm field, the parasite can thrive, noted Dr. David Freeman, a professor emeritus of infectious diseases at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. While travelers often report such infections, the current cases under scrutiny have not indicated any recent travel prior to falling ill.

Although no specific food has yet been linked to this outbreak, Freeman identified two produce categories that frequently appear as sources: the “herbs and basil” category, which includes cilantro, basil, and similar plants that could be used in salads or as garnishes, and the fresh berry group, encompassing strawberries, blueberries, and melons.

The good news is that cooking effectively kills the parasite; however, as the weather heats up, more people opt for no-cook meals, allowing this troublesome organism to find its way into our food.

To reduce the risk of falling ill, it’s crucial to wash all fresh produce thoroughly before consumption.

“Just washing it with plenty of water should help get rid of the organisms,” Freeman emphasized.

Cleaning hands, kitchen counters, and cutting boards is equally essential.

However, it’s important to note that bleach doesn’t eliminate this parasite. Thus, using Clorox wipes while out and about, like at a picnic, may not be effective. Instead, washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, followed by an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, is a safer approach.

The primary symptoms of cyclosporiasis include frequent watery diarrhea, decreased appetite, and a mild fever, with onset possible anywhere between 2 to 14 days after consuming contaminated food.

Remaining well-hydrated and restoring electrolytes with drinks like Gatorade or Pedialyte is also advised.

“If you’re experiencing severe diarrhea and a fever, I would recommend seeking medical assistance immediately,” Freeman stated.