Berry Berry Quite Contrary...Cyclospora Outbreaks

DOCTOR'S VIEW ARCHIVE

ATLANTA--Recently outbreaks of illness in the United States causing infectious watery diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting have been found to be related to a parasite called Cyclospora. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued the following update this week:

Update: Outbreaks of Cyclospora Cayetanensis Infection- United States and Canada, 1996

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working with federal, state and local health officials to investigate confirmed and suspected cases of cyclospora in the United States. Preliminary epidemiological investigations suggest that consumption of some fresh fruit, particularly raspberries grown in Guatemala, has been associated with increased risk for illness. Cyclospora is a parasite that causes watery diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. It is rarely fatal and can be treated with antibiotics. Transmission of Cyclospora directly from an infected individual to another is not likely.

It is still recommended that consumers wash fresh fruit to reduce the risk of food-borne illness.