Summer Food Safety: Simple Steps to Stay Healthy
July 16, 2026
Summer is a time to enjoy fresh produce, backyard barbecues and outdoor gatherings. It's also when healthcare providers typically see an increase in foodborne illnesses, including Cyclospora, a parasite that can contaminate fresh fruits and vegetables.
While New Mexico sees a small number of Cyclospora cases each summer, it's a good reminder that safe food handling can help prevent many foodborne illnesses.
Protect yourself and your family by following a few simple steps:
Wash your hands with soap and water before handling food and after touching raw meat.
Wash fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating or preparing them.
Keep raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods.
Cook foods to safe internal temperatures.
Refrigerate perishable foods within two hours—or within one hour if temperatures are above 90°F.
Symptoms of foodborne illness can include diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps and vomiting. While some infections, such as Cyclospora, may require prescription medication once diagnosed, most cases of diarrhea lasting only a day or two are caused by illnesses that do not require antibiotics. The best treatment for most healthy adults is staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest and allowing the illness to run its course. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses and taking them when they aren't needed can cause side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Seek medical care if your symptoms last more than two or three days without improving, you have a high fever, bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, or if you're pregnant, immunocompromised, or caring for a young child or older adult with these symptoms. Your healthcare provider can determine whether testing or prescription treatment is needed.
Practicing good food safety and knowing when to seek care can help you enjoy a healthy, safe New Mexico summer.
Medical information provided by Andrea Demeter MD, CPPS, Medical Director for Infection and Prevention Control Department at Presbyterian Healthcare.
