Health officials urge caution as cyclosporiasis cases rise, shoppers turn to local farmers

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Health officials are urging shoppers to be especially careful when eating lettuce and other leafy greens this summer amid growing concerns over a parasitic intestinal illness.

The warnings have prompted some customers at a Lincoln Park farmers market to take a closer look at how their produce is grown.

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For many shoppers, buying local has long been a way to support neighborhood farmers. But now, Ashley Robinson says the stakes feel higher.

"I would rather buy it here than a grocery store," Robinson said.

An outbreak of cyclosporiasis has led her to seek out farmers markets for fresh produce.

"I feel like these vegetables and other things would possibly be handled way better than something mass produced," she said.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there may be more than 5,000 cases of cyclosporiasis nationwide, with the vast majority reported in Michigan. The agency warns the number could continue to rise through the summer because symptoms can take one to two weeks to appear. The illness is caused by a microscopic parasite that can trigger severe diarrhea, fever and fatigue. Investigators say lettuce may be behind the outbreak.

Although many questions remain, Brad Hathaway of Yorkville-based American Pride Microfarm said he welcomes conversations with customers. "I think most of the food here is pretty safe. But just like anything, you want to wash it before you consume it," he said.

Steve Freeman of Nichols Farm and Orchard in Marengo said he understands why patrons are concerned and works to reassure them. "Food safety is a huge concern for us on the farm," he said. "We have systems in place and standard operating procedures to make sure our guys are taking care of themselves."

For shopper Xavier Clark, the ability to speak directly with farmers makes a difference. "Having that individual eye makes me more trustworthy of the fact that they're probably taking more care of their vegetables," he said.

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Federal health officials have not publicly identified a source of the outbreak.