What Pregnant Patients Need to Know About the Cyclospora Outbreak

There’s a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis across the U.S. this summer. While the outbreak is centered in Michigan, cases have been confirmed here in Connecticut — and if you’re pregnant, it’s worth understanding what this parasite is, how it spreads, and what to do if you’re concerned.

What is Cyclospora?

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by a parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. It spreads through fresh produce contaminated with the parasite, and it causes severe, watery — sometimes described as “explosive” — diarrhea and significant dehydration.

For most people, this is unpleasant but manageable. During pregnancy, though, dehydration carries added risk, which is why we want our patients to be aware of the outbreak and know what to watch for.

The tricky part: produce with a lot of surface texture — like raspberries, strawberries, and bagged salad greens — is harder to fully clean, which is part of why these outbreaks tend to trace back to berries and leafy greens.

Is it treatable?

Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics. However, antibiotic treatment isn’t automatically appropriate for every pregnant patient — not all antibiotic options are considered safe or recommended during pregnancy, so treatment decisions need to be made individually with your provider. If you develop symptoms, please contact our office so we can evaluate what’s appropriate for your specific situation rather than assuming antibiotics will be the answer.

How to protect yourself

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) recommends the following steps to reduce your risk:

• Wash all fresh produce under clean running water before eating, even if you plan to peel it.
• Buy whole heads of lettuce rather than pre-washed, bagged salad mixes. Remove and discard the outer two to three layers of leaves, and wash the inner leaves under running water.
• Wash cilantro, basil, and green onions thoroughly under running water, separating the leaves. These items are safest when cooked.
• Cook produce when possible. Heating food to 158°F (70°C) or higher kills Cyclospora.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing food.
• Scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
• Wash and sanitize cutting boards, surfaces, and utensils before and after handling food.
• Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked produce as soon as possible.

When to call your provider

If you experience sudden, persistent, or watery/explosive diarrhea, please contact your provider — this is especially important if you’re pregnant, given the added risk that dehydration can pose. We’d rather hear from you and rule things out than have you wait it out at home.

This information is based on guidance from the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the EPA/CDC. It is not a substitute for individualized medical advice — please contact your provider with any questions about your specific situation.