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The International Fresh Produce Association is asking federal health officials to expand how they investigate Cyclospora outbreaks. In comments submitted to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, IFPA recommended that investigators consider more than food-related exposures, including drinking water, recreational activities, wastewater, and other environmental factors.
“Protecting public health and finding the source of outbreaks as quickly as possible are goals we all share,” said Max Teplitski, IFPA chief science officer.
The group’s recommendations come as public health agencies continue investigating elevated Cyclospora cases in several states. IFPA says a broader approach could help identify outbreak sources faster and improve prevention efforts. The association also encouraged reviewing past unresolved investigations and considering wastewater surveillance as an additional tool.
IFPA says science-based investigations are critical to protecting consumers and maintaining confidence in the food supply.
NAFB news service
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