07/15/2026
According to our preventative health team, luckily Washington State hasn't seen this rather unfortunate parasite pop up yet... but make sure you're aware, prepared, and proactive! Proper food handling is key in combating this nasty little parasite!
Protecting Our Community: Understanding Cyclospora and How to Safeguard Your Health
There has been an uptick in Cyclospora cases across the nation, and it's important to know how to protect yourself and your family.
What is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can cause gastrointestinal illness.
This parasite is often found in contaminated water (f***s) or fresh produce like lettuce, basil, and raspberries. It can hide on fresh fruits, herbs, and leafy greens.
Is Your Salad Safe? Simple Steps to Protect Your Family:
Washing your produce is great, but standard kitchen sprays don't always kill this parasite. The main prevention strategy is to thoroughly wash, scrub, and/or cook all fresh fruits and vegetables before consumption. Here's how you can protect your family in 4 simple steps:
1. Wash Up First:
- Scrub your hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds before touching food, and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables.
2. Rinse and Scrub Thoroughly:
- Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking – even if labeled as pre-washed. Gently rub each leaf of lettuce, spinach, or basil under cold running tap water. Scrub firm fruits and vegetables (like melons and cucumbers) with a clean produce brush. Cut away any damaged or bruised areas.
3. Choose Whole Greens & Discard Outer Leaves:
- Instead of pre-bagged salad mixes, consider buying whole heads of lettuce. Peel away and throw out the outer two to three layers of outer leaves before washing the rest.
4. Cook When Possible:
- For the highest safety, cooking greens and other vegetables to a temperature of at least 158°F (70°C) is the absolute best way to make sure the parasite is completely gone.
Store Safely:
Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible (within two hours).
When to Call the Doctor:
Symptoms of Cyclospora infection can include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, increased gas, and heavy fatigue. If you or your family experience these symptoms, contact your local Military Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) or primary care provider.
Important Note: Standard stomach tests don't always look for this specific parasite, so make sure to tell your doctor if you recently ate raw produce!
More Information:
For more detailed information on Cyclospora, including a full list of symptoms, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: https://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis/.
Stay vigilant, stay healthy!
Defense Health Agency
