A Guide to Staying Safe This Summer   

Summer is here, and with it comes increased outdoor activities, fresh produce, and, unfortunately, a rise in certain foodborne illnesses. One such illness gaining attention across multiple states, especially Michigan and Ohio, with reports also in New York, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, and Virginia, is cyclosporiasis. Staying informed is your best defense, so here is what you need to know about this infection.  

What is Cyclosporiasis?  

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. It spreads through food or water contaminated with feces, most often via fresh produce.  

How Is It Different from a Typical Stomach Bug?  

• Timing: Symptoms usually appear about one week after eating contaminated food, with a range of 2 days to 2 weeks—not within hours, as with many stomach bugs.  

• Duration: The illness features watery, sometimes explosive diarrhea that can last for weeks and may come and go. 

• Self-Resolution: Unlike common stomach bugs, cyclosporiasis does not go away on its own; it needs antibiotics. If left untreated, symptoms can persist for a month or longer. 

• Additional Symptoms: Fatigue, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, and stomach cramps may also occur. 

What Foods to Watch Out For? 

Previous outbreaks have been linked to:   

• Bagged salad mixes and pre-washed lettuce   

• Fresh cilantro and basil   

• Raspberries and blackberries   

• Snap peas and snow peas  

Note: The CDC has not identified a single food source for the current outbreak, so general caution with all fresh produce is advised.  

Is It Safe to Eat Salads Right Now?  

Yes, fresh produce remains an important part of a healthy diet. To reduce risk:   

• Wash all produce thoroughly under running water before eating.  

• While washing helps, it may not fully remove the parasite. Household sanitizers or bleach do not kill it.  

• Cooking produce is the most reliable way to ensure safety, especially during peak season (May–August).  

• Consider buying from trusted sources.  

Can You Spread It to Family? 

No. Cyclosporiasis is not contagious from person to person. It only spreads through contaminated food or water.  

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider? 

Be sure to tell your doctor about any fresh produce you have eaten in the past two weeks.   

Seek medical attention if you experience:   

• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days   

• Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dark urine, dry mouth)   

• Fever, significant weight loss, or severe fatigue  

Diagnosis and Treatment  

• Diagnosis: A stool sample is needed for confirmation. Standard tests may not detect Cyclospora, so inform your doctor if you suspect this infection.   

• Treatment: Usually involves a course of the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim). Most people recover fully with proper treatment. 

For the latest updates on cyclosporiasis case counts and outbreak information, visit the CDC at www.cdc.gov/cyclospora. Your health is our top priority! If you have questions or symptoms, contact our clinic.