Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Affects 34 States and Sickens More Than 1,000

A cyclosporiasis outbreak has reached 34 U.S. states and sickened more than 1,000 people, Insider reported. The infection stems from a parasite that spreads through contaminated food or water and often attaches to leafy greens or fruits during growing, harvesting, or processing.

Past outbreaks have been tied to lettuce, raspberries, parsley, cilantro, and snow peas. Bagged salads carry higher risk because the parasite resists washing, according to Dr. Rabia de Latour, a gastroenterologist at Bellevue Hospital and professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.

Health officials have not yet identified the current source. Dr. de Latour said consumers should not eliminate fiber or fresh produce entirely. "You shouldn't cut fiber out of your diet because it's important, and you shouldn't deny yourself healthy foods because of this," she told Insider.

She recommended swapping raspberries for kiwi fruit, which can be peeled before eating. Avocados and peeled cucumbers also offer lower-risk fiber, she said. Sweet potatoes, bananas, citrus fruit, and melons provide additional options because their peels or rinds limit pathogen exposure.

Cooking food to 158 degrees Fahrenheit eliminates the parasite, Dr. de Latour noted. "Getting that cooking thermometer out is going to protect you," she said. She advised preparing high-risk items such as berries or herbs in thoroughly cooked dishes like compotes or stir-fries.