Cyclospora causes 3,000 diarrhea cases in US: Gastroenterologist Dr Salhab shares foods to avoid in parasite outbreak

Over 3,000 people in more than 30 US states have contracted cyclosporiasis from the Cyclospora parasite in an ongoing outbreak.

Michigan officials have identified lettuce as a common food among cases, but no supplier or grower has been confirmed as the source.

Gastroenterologist Dr. Joseph Salhab advises avoiding prewashed bagged salad kits, bagged spinach, pre-cut fruit bowls, fresh berries, raw leafy greens, fresh herbs, and premade pico/salsa.

Safe foods include hot cooked foods, scrubbed and baked produce (e.g., bananas, sweet potatoes), whole washed/sauteed tomatoes and cucumbers, frozen berries, and cooked canned vegetables.

Heating food to 158°F or higher kills the Cyclospora parasite.