Should Canadians avoid American produce amid cyclosporiasis spread?

Canadian health authorities are not planning to restrict fresh produce imports from the United States, even as cyclosporiasis cases surge south of the border. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) stated it is not investigating any outbreaks of the intestinal illness caused by the parasite cyclospora.

As of July 13, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 1,645 lab-confirmed cases across 34 states, resulting in 141 hospitalizations. This marks a significant increase from July 9, when 843 cases were reported in 31 states. The CDC acknowledges that actual case counts may be higher than reported.

The source of the U.S. outbreak remains under investigation, with the CDC noting that individuals affected did not report travel in the 14 days prior to falling ill. While no Canadian outbreaks are currently being investigated, the PHAC did mention a typical increase in cyclospora infections acquired in Canada during spring and summer, often linked to imported fruits and vegetables.

Cyclosporiasis is a nationally notifiable disease in Canada, with case counts typically shared annually. Investigations are launched for outbreaks involving multiple provinces or cross-border connections. Provincial health officials in several Canadian territories and provinces have confirmed no cyclosporiasis cases this year, while Alberta reported five cases, none linked to U.S. travel.