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Cyclospora Outbreak Reported in Texas

A cyclospora outbreak has sickened at least 68 people in Texas, according to a health advisory issued by the Texas State Department of Health Services.

Cyclospora is a parasite that infects the body when contaminated food or water is ingested. The parasite causes cyclosporiasis, an illness that results in severe diarrhea Public health officials are investigating the outbreak to identify its cause; past outbreaks have been linked to imported fresh produce, cilantro, pre-packaged salad mix, berries, basil, snow peas, and mesclun lettuce. While washing fresh produce is recommended, it will not eliminate the risk. However, cooking food will destroy cyclospora.