ABSTRACT
Outbreaks of cyclosporidiosis have been reported linked to the consumption of fruits (raspberries) and vegetables (for example, baby leaves of lettuce and basil) (Fleming et al., 1998; Sterling and Ortega, 1999; Herwaldt, 2000). The oocysts of Cyclospora cayetanensis seem to have a similar susceptibility and resistance to environmental stresses and treatments as Cryptosporidium. Symptoms of C. cayetanensis infection include acute watery diarrhoea with abdominal cramps, vomiting and weight loss (Soave, 1996). The illness may follow a relapsing course and could persist for weeks or months (Sterling and Ortega, 1999; Anonymous, 2001).
