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…