Tim Chan
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The first deaths from the cyclosporiasis outbreak in the U.S. have been reported, with two people in Michigan dying from complications related to the gastrointestinal illness this month.
More than 30 states have confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis since May, with thousands of patients reporting severe diarrhea, bloating, cramping, and flu-like symptoms. The illness is transmitted through a microscopic parasite called cyclospora, which is spread through food or water that has been contaminated by fecal matter. The FDA recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms (a Taco Bell supplier), for example, after identifying it as a potential source of one of the recent outbreaks.
How to Prevent Cyclosporiasis?
As concerns grow following the recent deaths, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging people to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of cyclosporiasis.
CDC officials say there are five main ways to prevent the spread of cyclosporiasis at home, with specific products you can use to kill any contamination.
1. Wash Hands With Soap and Water When Handling Product
The CDC says it’s important to not just wash your hands before handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables, but to also wash your hands afterward.
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2. Wash All Fruits and Vegetables Thoroughly
The CDC says it’s important to “thoroughly wash produce even if it is labeled as pre-washed.” While regular water is a good start, you should also consider using a fruit and vegetable wash, which can often help in removing and dissolving dirt and pesticide residue.
Searches for “produce cleaners” have surged in recent weeks, according to Google Trends, as cases of cyclosporiasis continue to grow.
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To use a fruit and vegetable wash, spray the formula directly onto the produce and then rub it in for about 20 to 30 seconds. Rinse under cold water and dry with a clean towel or paper towel. If you’re washing berries, grapes, or leaves, Rebel Green suggests diluting two ounces of their produce cleaner with water in a large bowl (or a 1:10 produce water-to-water ratio). Soak and gently rub for 30 seconds, then drain the bowl and rinse the produce off with cold water.
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3. Scrub Fruits and Vegetables With a Produce Brush
In addition to using a produce wash, the CDC says it is imperative to scrub firm fruits and vegetables with a clean produce brush, even if you are discarding the skin. The CDC specifically cites melons as an example of a product people should scrub, just to be safe.
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Aside from brushing and washing your produce, you should also cut off any damaged or bruised areas before eating.
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4. Refrigerate Cut, Peeled, or Cooked Fruits and Vegetables Within Two Hours
The CDC says it’s important to properly store and refrigerate your produce, especially after it has been cut and peeled.
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5. Cook Your Fruits and Vegetables
Of course, cooking your vegetables is the best way to prevent the spread of cyclosporiasis. “Cooking can kill the parasite,” the CDC asserts on its website. “Since washing alone cannot guarantee the parasite’s removal, you can cook produce to a temperature of at least 158 °F.”
How Is Cyclosporiasis Treated?
While treatment for cyclosporiasis can be done with prescription antibiotics, drugs are not always needed. The CDC says, “Most people who have healthy immune systems will recover without treatment.”
If you feel symptoms but aren’t sure if you need to see the doctor, the CDC says you can always start with taking anti-diarrheal medicine and then drinking plenty of electrolytes to replenish water loss.
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Despite the recent deaths, cyclosporiasis is generally not considered a life-threatening illness, but symptoms can be prolonged if not treated. You should consult your doctor or healthcare provider if you think you may be affected.
