Salads from the garden, freshly picked basil, raspberries from the market, and snow peas are among the joys of summer. Before placing them on your plate, however, there’s one simple step that’s crucial: washing them thoroughly. Public health authorities are seeing an increase in cases of cyclosporosis In Quebec, an intestinal infection caused by a microscopic parasite that can be found on certain foods eaten raw. Thorough washing remains one of the most accessible ways to reduce the risk.
On this page
- A parasitic infection that is spreading
- Which foods are most at risk?
- What are the symptoms?
- How to Wash Your Fruits and Vegetables Properly
- People at higher risk of complications
- When to See a Professional
- Myths and Misconceptions
- Frequently asked questions
A parasitic infection that is spreading
Cyclosporiasis is an infection caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. It is transmitted when a person consumes water or food contaminated with human feces containing the parasite. Unlike many foodborne infections, it is not transmitted directly from person to person: the parasite must first spend some time in the environment before it becomes infectious.
In Quebec, public health officials have recently reported an unusual increase in cases. The situation is also being monitored elsewhere in North America, where several U.S. states are reporting higher-than-usual numbers of infections during the warmer months. For now, Canadian authorities have not linked the outbreak to any specific food product sold in the country, but they remain vigilant.
Why Cases Rise in the Summer
Cyclosporosis follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Several factors combine during the warmer months:
- increased consumption of fresh, raw foods, such as salads and berries;
- the importation of food from regions where the parasite is more common;
- meals eaten out, at markets, at festivals, or while traveling;
- environmental conditions conducive to the parasite's maturation.
| Features | Cyclosporosis |
|---|---|
| Person in Charge | Parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis |
| Transmission mode | Contaminated water or food (fecal matter) |
| Person-to-person transmission | No (direct transmission is unlikely) |
| Foods That Are Often to Blame | Fresh products eaten raw |
| Typical season | Spring and Summer |
Key Takeaways
- Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic intestinal parasite.
- It is spread through contaminated water or food, not through direct contact.
- Cases are on the rise in Quebec, especially during the warmer months.
- No specific food product sold in the country has been targeted so far.
- Fresh produce eaten raw is the primary source of transmission.
- Thorough washing reduces the risk, though it does not eliminate it entirely.
Which foods are most at risk?
Investigations conducted during previous outbreaks show that the parasite is often linked to food that has been consumed vintages. Since these products are generally not cooked, the parasite can survive all the way to the plate.
The most frequently mentioned products
- lettuce and bagged salad greens;
- basil;
- cilantro;
- raspberries and other berries;
- snow peas;
- cucumbers;
- some green onions and fresh herbs.
| Category | Examples | Why Be Vigilant? |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves and Salads | Lettuce, bagged salad mixes | There are many surfaces where the parasite can take hold |
| Fresh herbs | Basil, cilantro, green onions | Dense foliage, often eaten raw |
| Berries | Raspberries | Delicate fabric; gentle washing required |
| Crunchy vegetables | Snow peas, cucumbers | Eaten raw, sometimes with the skin on |
Cooking: An Effective Barrier
Heat kills the parasite. Therefore, thoroughly cooked foods do not pose the same risk. That is why the recommendations focus primarily on foods intended to be eaten raw, such as salads, fresh herb garnishes, and plain fruit.
Key Takeaways
- Foods eaten raw are the most risky.
- Lettuce, herbs, and berries are the most common.
- Cooking kills the parasite.
- Special attention should be paid to fresh toppings and salads.
- No food is «always» contaminated: the risk varies.
- Handwashing complements—but does not replace—good general hygiene.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of cyclosporosis usually appear between two days and two weeks after exposure to the parasite. The most characteristic symptom is profuse watery diarrhea, sometimes described as «explosive.».
The Most Common Symptoms
- frequent, profuse watery diarrhea;
- abdominal cramps and bloating;
- nausea and loss of appetite;
- severe fatigue;
- Sometimes a mild fever or vomiting.
Without treatment, symptoms may recur in waves and persist for several weeks. In some people, particularly those with weakened immune systems, the episode may be prolonged and accompanied by severe fatigue and weight loss.
| Aspect | What We Often See |
|---|---|
| Time to onset | About 2 days to 2 weeks after exposure |
| Main symptom | Heavy watery diarrhea |
| Associated symptoms | Cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue |
| Course of the disease without treatment | Possible relapses over several weeks |
Are you experiencing severe, persistent diarrhea, or do you have questions after a meal or a trip? Our teams can assist you right away. Schedule an appointment at one of our service locations in Quebec through our appointment scheduling page, choose a online consultation, or check out our entire selection of services.
How to Wash Your Fruits and Vegetables Properly
A few simple steps when it comes to preparation help reduce the risk of contamination. None of them can guarantee that food is «parasite-free,» but using them together makes a real difference.
Recommended Steps
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling fruits and vegetables. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not very effective against this parasite.
- Rinse all fruits and vegetables under cold running water, even those you plan to peel.
- For lettuce, separate the leaves one by one so you can clean each surface thoroughly.
- Soak the herbs, such as basil and cilantro, in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes, then rinse them again.
- Wash the raspberries gently, just before eating them, to prevent them from getting bruised.
- Gently scrub vegetables with firm skin, such as cucumbers, with your hands or a clean brush reserved for food.
Things to Avoid
- Never use soap, bleach, or household cleaners to clean food.
- Don't rely on hand sanitizer as a substitute for soap and water.
- Avoid washing berries too far in advance, as this causes them to soften.
Minimizing Cross-Contamination
Clean cutting boards, knives, and work surfaces regularly. Keeping raw foods separate from ready-to-eat foods reduces the transfer of microorganisms from one food item to another.
Key Takeaways
- Washing your hands before handling food is the first step.
- Rinse under cold water, even foods that you peel.
- Separate the lettuce leaves to clean each one.
- Never use soap or household cleaning products on food.
- Scrub vegetables with firm skin using a clean brush.
- Clean cutting boards, knives, and surfaces to prevent cross-contamination.
People at higher risk of complications
Most healthy people recover, but some people are more likely to develop complications, particularly those related to dehydration caused by diarrhea.
- older adults;
- young children;
- pregnant women;
- people who are immunocompromised or have a chronic illness.
For these groups, prolonged, profuse diarrhea warrants special attention. It is important to monitor for signs of dehydration, such as intense thirst, a dry mouth, or decreased urine output.
When to See a Professional
Cyclosporiasis can resemble other causes of diarrhea, and only a healthcare professional can make a diagnosis. It is advisable to seek medical attention when:
- severe diarrhea persists for several days;
- Symptoms appear after traveling or eating raw food;
- signs of dehydration appear;
- The affected person belongs to a more vulnerable group.
A healthcare professional can assess the situation, order the appropriate tests, and determine the most appropriate course of treatment. Do not self-medicate: the treatment for cyclosporosis differs from that for other intestinal infections.
Myths and Misconceptions
«A quick rinse is always enough to get rid of the parasite.»
Nuanced. Rinsing reduces the amount of contaminants, but it does not guarantee the complete elimination of the parasite. That is why it is part of a series of steps rather than a single solution.
«A little soap cleans fruit better.»
False. Soap, bleach, and household cleaning products should never be used to wash food. Cold water and scrubbing are sufficient for preparing food at home.
«Cyclosporiasis is spread through close contact with an infected person.»
False. The parasite must spend some time in the environment before it becomes infectious. Direct transmission from person to person is unlikely.
«Hand sanitizer can be used instead of washing your hands.»
False. Alcohol-based gels are not very effective against this parasite. Washing your hands with soap and water remains the best practice before preparing food.
«If a food product comes from Quebec, there's no risk.»
Nuanced. No food sold in the country has been identified as a risk so far, but there is always some risk with raw products. Proper food preparation practices are still recommended, regardless of the food’s origin.
Frequently asked questions
Is cyclosporiasis dangerous?
In a healthy person, the infection often resolves on its own, but it can be distressing and may persist without treatment. Vulnerable individuals are at greater risk of complications. If in doubt, it’s best to see a doctor.
How long do the symptoms last?
They usually appear within a few days to two weeks after exposure. Without treatment, they can recur in waves and last for a long time. A healthcare professional can help shorten the duration of the episode.
Should we stop eating salads and berries?
No. These foods are part of a healthy diet. The key is to prepare them carefully: wash your hands thoroughly, rinse them under cold water, and keep your work surfaces clean.
Does washing completely eliminate the parasite?
Washing reduces the risk but does not eliminate it entirely. It is one of several preventive measures. Cooking, when possible, kills the parasite.
When should I see a doctor?
Seek medical attention if severe diarrhea persists for several days, especially after traveling or eating raw foods, or if signs of dehydration appear. Vulnerable individuals should seek medical attention sooner.
Is it possible to have a remote consultation for these types of symptoms?
An initial remote assessment is often possible to help guide the process. Depending on the situation, a professional may recommend an in-person consultation or tests. Our service online consultation might be a practical starting point.
Sources
- Government of Quebec — Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS), information on foodborne illnesses. quebec.ca/sante
- Quebec National Institute of Public Health (INSPQ), surveillance of enteric diseases. inspq.qc.ca
- Public Health Agency of Canada, cyclosporosis (Cyclospora). canada.ca/sante-publique
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Safety. inspection.canada.ca
- Government of Canada, tips for safe food handling. canada.ca/sante-canada
- MAPAQ — Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, food safety. quebec.ca
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