See The List: Foods to Avoid in ‘Explosive’ Gastro-Illness Outbreak
(KMDL-FM) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated information regarding an ongoing parasitic infection outbreak. That outbreak has sickened people in 31 states and sent nearly 90 people to the hospital. The current outbreak of Cyclosporiasis has now been linked to fresh foods, and the CDC is now offering a more specific list of foods to avoid.
We have known since this outbreak began in May that there was a link to fresh produce. New York and Michigan appear to have the most infections, but as we've mentioned, more than 30 states, including Louisiana, have reported cases.
As investigators have reviewed the data from those states and those cases, we are now getting a clearer picture of the particular food items we should avoid or at least scrutinize more diligently.
Based on CDC guidance, we know that Cyclospora, the parasite that causes Cyclosporiasis, is generally spread by consuming contaminated fresh produce or water that contains the parasite. The symptoms aren't usually noticed for about a week, but they can take longer to manifest in some people and not as long in others.
What Are The Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis?
The symptoms are not pleasant and include Loss of appetite
Bloating, with burping and flatulence, Fatigue, Low-grade fever
Stomach cramps, Nausea, Vomiting, Watery and sometimes explosive or severe diarrhea. This can lead to dehydration, one of the main concerns with the illness.
So far, the investigation into the outbreak has not confirmed a single source as the cause of the illness, but the State of Michigan's Department of Health has created a list of "suspected" foods that have been linked to previous outbreaks of the disease.
These Foods Have Been Linked to Past Outbreaks of the Parasite
Again, there is no official advisory saying these foods are the confirmed cause of the illness, but out of an abundance of caution, it might not be a bad idea if you avoided bagged salad kits and mixes, fresh cilantro, fresh basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions.
READ MORE: Louisiana Strawberries Under Scrutiny Over Pesticide Contamination
The Michigan Department of Health also offered tips for consumers who still needed or wanted these items as part of their diet. The suggestions included buying whole heads of lettuce instead of salad kits, vigorously washing all fresh produce, and remembering to separate leaves. Green onions should be trimmed, the outer layer removed, and the remaining material vigorously washed.
Raspberries, because of their bumpy surface, can be especially hard to wash; that's why frozen berries might be your best option, at least in the near future. Snow Peas just need a vigorous washing as well.
READ MORE: Rare Flea Disease Linked to 2 Deaths in Louisiana
Of course, the CDC and Michigan Department of Health agree that all of these items should be thoroughly cooked before they are consumed. That is the best way to ensure food safety in regard to this current outbreak.
Louisiana Hospitals Most at Risk