There is an outbreak of cyclosporiasis in the United States. The foodborne illness, caused by the cyclospora parasite, is characterized by relapsing digestive symptoms, such as explosive diarrhea.

The parasite is linked to contaminated fruits, vegetables and crop water, as well as unsanitary washroom facilities for agricultural workers.

McGill experts are available to comment on this topic:

Michael Libman, MD, is a Professor in the Faculty of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, and Director of the J.D. MacLean Tropical Diseases Centre. Dr. Libman can discuss the cyclospora parasite, its effects, and what makes the resulting illness difficult to trace and detect. He can also comment on the potential risk to Canadians.

michael.libman [at] mcgill.ca (English, French)

Jennifer Ronholm is Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Agricultural Microbiology, an Associate Professor in the Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry and an Associate Member at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. She can contextualize the American outbreak with respect to food policy, food inspection and government regulations, as well as historical cyclosporiasis outbreaks. She can also discuss how Canadian food inspection systems control for foodborne pathogens.

jennifer.ronholm [at] mcgill.ca (English)