Cyclosporiasis in the US Linked to Lettuce, Here's How to Reduce the Risk

JAKARTA - Cases of cyclosporiasis are being investigated in dozens of US states after the disease was linked to iceberg lettuce. Consumers are advised to be more careful in choosing raw materials, but there is no need to immediately avoid tacos, burritos, or salads.

USA Today, quoted Thursday, July 23, said federal and state health officials were still searching for the source of the outbreak. There is not a single brand or product that has been declared as the cause of all cases.

Cyclosporiasis is a disease of the intestine caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Infection usually occurs after a person eats contaminated food or water.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC along with state health departments are monitoring the development of the outbreak.

Investigators are examining leafy greens commonly used in tacos, salads and other menus that use the raw ingredient.

Taco Bell has temporarily removed a number of ingredients at certain outlets. The company said health officials had not confirmed a link between the outbreak and its restaurant chain as a whole.

However, federal investigators say the lettuce served at some Taco Bell outlets is linked to a number of cases.

Chipotle is also following the development of the investigation. The company said it did not believe the ingredients supplied to its restaurants were related to the current outbreak.

"We are aware of the Cyclospora investigation. At this time, we do not believe the ingredients we use are related to the outbreak," said Chipotle's Chief Corporate and Food Safety Affairs Laurie Schalow.

The parasite is often spread through fruit, vegetables, spices, and packaged salad mixes that are eaten raw. However, this does not mean that all salads are at risk.

A gastroenterologist told USA Today that he temporarily avoids packaged lettuce, cilantro, parsley, and raspberries to reduce the risk of exposure.

Consumers can choose foods with fewer raw materials. Additional lettuce can be eliminated, companion salads can be replaced, and raw materials can be exchanged for cooked fillings.

Orders can also be customized without having to avoid fast food completely. Consumers can ask restaurants if there are ingredients that have been withdrawn or replaced due to the outbreak.

Note the place and time of the visit because symptoms usually only appear about a week after exposure.

The complaints can be watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

Some sufferers also experience vomiting, headaches, body aches, or mild fever.

Contact a doctor if symptoms are severe, last more than a few days, or increase the risk of dehydration.

Because the single source of the outbreak has not been found, recommendations may change as new information emerges. Health officials in the US are still monitoring the development of cases.