Two People Have Died in the Cyclospora Outbreak

“While most people recover from cyclosporiasis, individuals with underlying medical conditions or those in higher-risk groups may be more susceptible to serious complications, especially if prolonged diarrhea results in dehydration,” says Wade Syers, a food-safety specialist at Michigan State University Extension. “Anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea, signs of dehydration, or worsening symptoms should seek medical attention, particularly if they are in a higher-risk group.”

People who are elderly or have weakened immune systems, including people who are undergoing chemotherapy or who have advanced HIV, are at greater risk of cyclosporiasis complications, says Rohde. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics, along with aggressive fluid replacement when needed, can significantly reduce the risks of complications, he says. 

To reduce potential exposure to Cyclospora, food-safety experts recommend buying intact heads of lettuce and whole fruits and vegetables over bagged, boxed, or pre-cut produce. They also advise people to wash produce thoroughly under running water and follow other food-safety best practices, such as keeping raw meat and vegetables separate when preparing and cooking food. Cooking food to an internal temperature of at least 158°F can kill Cyclospora.