Food items to keep an eye on amid ‘explosive diarrhea’ parasite outbreak

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- For nearly a month, much of the Borderland and the country has had growing concerns over an outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite.

It is caused by consuming food or water that contains the parasite and is characterized by symptoms that can include watery or "explosive" diarrhea. Officials said high-risk food items include certain fruits and vegetables.

According to Angela Walla, a professor in the Department of Animal & Food Sciences at Texas Tech University, who is a microbiologist and food scientist, high-risk produce items include lettuce and salad greens.

Examples of these high-risk items include:

• Bagged, re-washed, organic salads
• Pre-packaged vegetable trays
• Raspberries and blackberries
• Basil and cilantro
• Green onions
• Watercress

The public is encouraged to take appropriate steps to avoid cyclospora by washing all produce thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking -- regardless of whether it is pre-washed.

You should also wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables.