Cyclospora cayetanensis infections associated with fresh produce have emerged as a serious public health concern in the U.S. in the past decade. In 1996 and 1997, cases of infection in the US and Canada were associated with consumption of berries imported from Guatemala. Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis were linked to basil in 1997, 1999, 2001, and 2005 and to snow peas in 2004 and 2009.  In 2013, more than 600 cases of cyclosporiasis potentially linked to fresh produce were reported in 23 states. These outbreaks reflect the complex nature of C. cayetanensis and its associations with fresh fruits and vegetables.  Difficulties in epidemiologic investigations and confirmation of sources of C. cayetanensis responsible for outbreaks have been due in part to the unavailability of sensitive analytical tests for its detection. Epidemiologists and food parasitologists from CDC, FDA, and academia will address the biological properties of C. cayetanensis in this symposium. Recent advances in the biology, control, detection, and prevention will be presented. In addition, this symposium will describe the challenges and limitations in outbreak investigations, particularly the one in 2013.  A representative from the food industry will address preventive measures implemented to minimize the risk of outbreaks associated with fresh produce.

Presentations