Parasite on Produce? What Seniors Need to Know About the Cyclospora Outbreak

Recent news about a parasite found on fresh produce has many older adults wondering whether it is safe to eat salads, fruits and vegetables. This parasite, called Cyclospora, has been recently linked to outbreaks across the United States. While anyone can become infected, older adults should keep in mind they may face a greater risk of complications from any foodborne diarrheal illness.

There are many types of food- or waterborne infections that cause diarrhea. The causes include bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter; viruses such as Norovirus, and protozoa, such as Giardia and Cyclospora. These types of infections are not new.

Cyclospora infections are rare and highly treatable. There are also simple steps you can take to protect yourself while continuing to enjoy a healthy diet that includes fresh produce.

What is a parasite?

A parasite is an organism that lives on or inside another living thing to survive. Cyclospora is a single cell parasite that can make people sick when it enters the body through contaminated food or water.

What is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora can contaminate the surface of fruits, vegetables, and water. People can become infected after eating produce that contains the parasite on it. Once inside the body, Cyclospora affects the small intestine and can cause severe diarrhea and illness.

Recent outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce such as lettuce, leafy greens, herbs, and other fruits and vegetables.

Do seniors need to be worried about the Cyclospora parasite?

While the risk of getting the Cyclospora parasite are low, older adults are more likely to experience complications from prolonged diarrhea such as dehydration. For seniors, dehydration can increase the risk of dizziness, weakness, confusion, falls, and even hospitalization.

Seniors with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, cancer, or weakened immune systems can especially be vulnerable to severe illness and dehydration from the infection.

What are Cyclospora infection symptoms in older adults?

• Watery diarrhea
• Frequent bowel movements
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Bloating and gas
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• low grade fever

These symptoms usually develop 2-14 days after ingestion.

If you have these symptoms, it's time to call your primary care doctor. If you are an ArchWell Health member, you can reach a local provider with access to your health information 24/7, nights, weekends and holidays. Just call your ArchWell Health center phone number to talk about testing and treatment.

Can you wash cyclospora off produce?

Washing fruits and vegetables is always a good idea, but Cyclospora can be difficult to remove completely. Health officials have recommended thoroughly rinsing produce under cold water for at least a minute, removing outer lettuce leaves, and avoiding pre-bagged leafy greens. Always wash hands with soap and water prior to preparing food. Cooking fruits and vegetables to 158 degrees will completely eliminate the parasite.

When should you call a doctor and how can they help?

It is time to call a provider if you experience prolonged diarrhea, dehydration, blood in the stool, fever, severe abdominal pain, confusion, or unusual weakness.

If it is determined that you have a cyclospora infection, you will likely receive a prescription for an antibiotic. Most people start to feel better during the course of antibiotic treatment, which may last 7-10 days.

Final takeaways

The current Cyclospora outbreak is a reminder that foodborne infections can affect anyone, but there is no need to avoid fresh produce all together. If you are experiencing persistent diarrhea, it's always a good idea to contact your healthcare provider.