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COLUMBIA, Mo. – As health officials investigate a growing national outbreak of cyclosporiasis, University of Missouri Etension food safety specialist Kantha Channaiah is available for media interviews on how consumers and food businesses can reduce their risk of illness and safely handle fresh produce.
Related: Cyclospora facts (MU Extension fact sheet)
Cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, is commonly linked to contaminated fresh produce. It can cause prolonged diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating and nausea. Symptoms typically start about a week after exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with state and federal partners, is investigating multiple outbreaks of cyclosporiasis. As of July 13, CDC reported 1,645 confirmed domestic cases nationwide since May 1. Investigations to identify the food source are ongoing.
Locally, Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services announced on July 15 that eight cases of cyclosporiasis have been confirmed in Boone County. The agency is working with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to determine if the cases are connected to the broader national outbreak.
Channaiah can discuss:
- Practical steps consumers and food businesses can take to lower risk.
- Safe handling and preparation of fresh produce.
- Food safety best practices.
Channaiah is available for media comment at 573-882-2673 or LChannaiah@missouri.edu.
Kantha Channaiah is a state extension specialist in food processing and safety and an assistant professor of food science at the University of Missouri. He runs MU’s Food Processing and Safety Lab, which provides scientific testing, food safety consulting and process authority review services to help ensure products are safe and meet state and federal regulatory requirements.