Health expert Dr. Payal Kohli appeared on 9 News Australia to explain the risks of cyclospora infection and how to prevent it.

Public awareness of the parasite is critical as it can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and has been linked to widespread outbreaks in North America. Understanding the transmission and symptoms allows individuals to seek timely medical intervention and avoid contaminated food sources.

Cyclospora is a parasite that typically spreads through contaminated food or water. Kohli said the nature of the infection and the specific measures people can take to protect themselves from contracting the parasite.

Recent data highlights the potential for large-scale outbreaks. In the U.S., at least 145 people across 17 states were infected [1]. Additionally, a separate surge in southeastern Michigan sickened more than 150 people [2]. These combined events resulted in a total of roughly 300 people affected by the parasite in the U.S. [3].

Prevention focuses on hygiene and food safety. Because the parasite is often linked to imported produce, thorough washing, and careful sourcing of fresh fruits and vegetables are essential steps in reducing risk.

Kohli said on 9 News Australia that the appearance aimed to inform the public about how to recognize the symptoms of the infection. Early detection is key to managing the illness and preventing further spread within a community.

“Roughly 300 people affected in the U.S. outbreak”

The rise in reported cyclospora cases across multiple U.S. states underscores the vulnerability of global food supply chains to parasitic contamination. As consumers increasingly rely on imported produce, the risk of cross-border transmission grows, necessitating more rigorous screening and public health education on food preparation.