A recent outbreak of a notorious parasite Cyclospora infection occurred and was linked to salad kits sold by big grocery store chains in the midwestern states in the US.
An outbreak of parasite infection affected more than one hundred people in the Midwest. Large market giant firms such as Hy-vee and Aldi’s salad kit mixes are potential candidates for the culprits, CDC says.
Cyclospora is a queer type of parasite consisting of only a single cell. Cyclosporiasis is responsible for diarrhea. The degree of the disease could vary. It could be either mild watery or even harsh.
The parasite can enter your body by the ingestion of deteriorated food or water. A hundred and twenty-two people caught the infection according to the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
Presently, there are many reasons possible for the issue. However, salad kits from well-celebrated suppliers comprising of cabbages, carrots, lettuce, etc. were common in the victim’s residence.
Time runs faster in the United States. People always prefer tasks that take less time. This is the reason for the popularity of fast food and other ready-to-eat items.
But there is a side effect to the easy way around. Easy foods are proved as less healthy than natural, difficult to prepare foods. They provide better nutrition and are also safer.
However, there are a few people who opt for these as the daily routine for them is too monotonous. Salad kits are an alternative for naturally prepared salad.
But the salad from big chains in the market is now a possible reason for Cyclospora infection in the midwest. Presently, 7 individuals are in hospitals due to parasite infection.
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CDC acted against the enterprises and many of them responded well in time. A firm such as ALDI, Hy-Vee, and Jewel-Osco already called their products back from the stores.
At present, cases occurred in only seven states in the westward. However, the CDC recommended that all neighboring states should discard any salad kits that come from well-celebrated brands.
It is good that the agencies like Food and Drug Administration and the CDC are taking serious action against this problem. Considering the already immense pressure due to COVID-19 in the US, these efforts are commendable.
The problem created by the parasite is not as serious as the coronavirus in the US. However, it is an outbreak nevertheless and needs adequate attention so that it never comes to point when things become out of control.
Cyclosporiasis can be treated with the help of antibiotics and there is seldom a need to go to a hospital. However, the problem is continual.
CDC notes that such cases emerge in the region every summer such as Cyclospora infection upsurge that happened last year which was due to McDonald’s salad.
