Quebec sees rise in cyclosporiasis cases, doctor says public should stay calm

Health officials in Quebec are reporting a sharp increase in cyclosporiasis cases this summer, with 140 cases recorded between May 1 and July 21 compared with 40 during the same period last year. Dr. Donald Vinh, a McGill University infectious diseases professor, said the rise should be taken seriously by health professionals and public health authorities, but he does not believe it warrants alarm among the general public. He noted that cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite spread through contaminated food or water and can cause watery diarrhea, bloating, gas and loss of appetite. The province says most cases this year have been linked to travel to Mexico, and federal health officials said there are no cyclospora outbreaks under investigation in Canada. Vinh said the increase highlights foodsafety concerns and could also reflect broader environmental pressures, including climate change, but he emphasized that people should continue to eat fruits and vegetables and wash produce carefully, especially if a recall has been issued.