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Cyclospora Outbreak: Should You Wash Prewashed Lettuce?

Cyclospora Outbreak: Should You Wash Prewashed Lettuce?
Should You Wash Your Prewashed Lettuce? An Infectious Disease Expert Explains How To Eat Your Greens Safely During The Cyclospora Outbreak · NDTV

There's an outbreak of a parasite called cyclospora that's making people sick with diarrhea.

It's found in fresh produce like lettuce.

Some people are avoiding salads because of this, but experts say you can still enjoy them safely.

Prewashed lettuce is usually safe, but during outbreaks, it's better to wash it again.

Even better, buy whole heads of lettuce and wash them at home.

Local produce is also safer because it goes through fewer steps before reaching you.

So, keep eating your greens, just follow some simple safety tips!

Key facts

Outbreak Year
2026
Number of Cases
11,500+
Primary Symptom
Explosive diarrhea
Causative Parasite
Cyclospora
Recommended Practice
Wash prewashed greens during outbreaks
Best Practice
Choose whole heads of lettuce and wash at home
Local Produce Benefit
Fewer processing steps, lower contamination risk

Sources

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