Foodborne outbreaks can affect anyone, but knowing how they occur—and how to protect yourself—can significantly reduce your risk. In this episode of Health in Harlem on WHCR 90.3 FM, Dr. Maurice Selby and the team examine the 2026 Cyclospora outbreak, discussing what Cyclospora cayetanensis is, how it contaminates food, why fresh produce is often implicated, and what public health officials are doing to investigate and contain outbreaks. The conversation explains the symptoms of cyclosporiasis, how the infection is diagnosed and treated, who is at greatest risk for complications, and practical steps consumers can take to reduce the likelihood of foodborne illness. The episode also explores how local, state, and federal public health agencies—including the CDC, FDA, and local health departments—work together to identify outbreaks, trace contaminated food products, and communicate important safety information to the public. As always, Health in Harlem is committed to improving health literacy by providing reliable, evidence-based medical information that empowers listeners to make informed decisions for themselves, their families, and their communities. Learn More Health in Harlem WHCR 90.3 FM Health in Harlem Podcast on Spotify Health in Harlem Podcast on Apple Podcasts Health in Harlem Podcast on Amazon Music Reliable Information About Cyclospora Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) CDC – Cyclosporiasis Overview CDC – Prevention and Treatment of Cyclosporiasis CDC – Current Foodborne Outbreak Investigations U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) FDA – Cyclospora Information for Consumers and Industry New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene NYC Health – Foodborne Illness Information NYC Health – Report Foodborne Illness Additional Resources U.S. Department of Agriculture – Food Safety Education FoodSafety.gov – Food Recalls and Alerts Those Nerdy Girls- What's going on with this outbreak of diarrhea in the US? Your Local Epidemiologist- 10 Cyclospora Questions Key Takeaways Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, a diarrheal illness most commonly linked to contaminated fresh produce. Symptoms typically include prolonged watery diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramping, nausea, and low-grade fever. Unlike many foodborne pathogens, Cyclospora is not usually spread directly from person to person because the parasite requires time in the environment to become infectious. Washing produce is important for overall food safety but may not completely eliminate Cyclospora, making outbreak investigations and food recalls especially important. If you develop persistent diarrhea after eating fresh produce—particularly during an active outbreak—seek medical care. Effective treatment is available with appropriate prescription antibiotics. About Health in Harlem Health in Harlem is a weekly radio show and podcast dedicated to improving health literacy and promoting evidence-based public health education through conversations with physicians, scientists, public health experts, and community leaders. The program airs on WHCR 90.3 FM and is hosted by Maurice Selby. Every episode aims to translate the latest medical evidence into practical, understandable guidance that helps listeners make informed decisions about their health and the health of their communities.
