The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is issuing guidance on handling fresh produce to lower the risk of cyclosporiasis infections.
This parasitic infection causes severe, explosive diarrhea that can last for weeks, posing a significant public health challenge as cases rise across the country.
Health officials are focusing on how consumers wash, store, and handle fresh fruits and vegetables to prevent the spread of *Cyclospora cayetanensis*. The parasite has been reported in as many as 31 states [3], with more than 4,000 confirmed cases [2]. Other reports indicate the infection has spread through 17 states [1].
The surge in cases has been particularly noted in reports from 2026 and 2026 [2]. The CDC and health experts said that contaminated fresh produce, such as bagged salads, berries, basil, and cilantro, often serves as the primary vector for the parasite.
There is conflicting information regarding the efficacy of cleaning produce. Some experts said that specific washing techniques can reduce the risk of infection [5]. However, other reports state that washing produce alone will not kill the parasite [2].
Despite these contradictions, health officials continue to advise a combination of careful handling and storage to minimize exposure. Hundreds of people in the U.S. have already become ill during this period [4].
Because the parasite is resilient, the CDC recommends vigilance when selecting and preparing raw vegetables. The agency said that consumers should remain aware of the types of produce most likely to be contaminated to avoid the debilitating symptoms associated with the illness.
“More than 4,000 cases have been confirmed”
The wide geographic spread of Cyclospora cayetanensis across the U.S. suggests a systemic issue in the produce supply chain rather than a localized outbreak. Because the parasite is difficult to eliminate through standard washing, the CDC's guidance reflects a shift toward comprehensive risk mitigation, emphasizing that consumer behavior alone may not be enough to stop the surge if the contamination occurs at the source.
