UC experts say proper produce washing is key defense against Cyclospora
Hamilton County reports confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis as doctors outline steps to reduce risk
Hamilton County Public Health reports confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis as concerns persist. Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause a stomach illness lasting days — sometimes even weeks. University of Cincinnati medical experts say it is usually linked to contaminated water or food, often fresh produce.
Carl Fichtenbaum, MD, a UC professor of internal medicine and an infectious diseases researcher, recently told Fox 19 Now that a quick rinse may not be enough to remove cyclospora from food. The parasite can latch onto produce, making it resistant to a simple wash with water alone.
Fichtenbaum said that using a small amount of dish soap — followed by a thorough rinse — can help dislodge anything clinging to the surface.
“It’s got antibacterial properties, and it is also very good for dislodging parasites from things,” said Fichtenbaum.
“People should be cleaning their fresh produce very carefully,” Fichtenbaum told Spectrum News 1 Ohio. “Take a little scrub brush, some dish soap and some water and wash it for anywhere between five to 15 seconds.”
Past outbreaks have centered on produce that many families buy regularly, Fichtenbaum said.
“Most of the outbreaks we’ve seen have been on sort of leafy kinds of vegetables, snap peas, cilantro, lettuce, things like that,” he said.
After handling produce, Fichtenbaum said hand-washing is a critical final step.
“Then you really want to wash your hands with soap and water for 30 seconds. Sing the ‘Happy Birthday’ song. That way you know you’ve done it long enough,” he said.
Read the full Fox 19 Now story for when Fichtenbaum said those with cyclosporiasis symptoms should call a doctor.
Featured image at top: iStock/wildpixel.
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