local
How to stay safe and still enjoy produce this summer with the outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite
By Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC)
· July 10, 2026
· 4 min read
Scores of people in the United States have been sickened by a parasite commonly linked to contaminated fresh produce that can cause weeks of watery diarrhea. But there are ways to protect yourself and still enjoy summer’s bounty of fruits and vegetables.The exact source of one of the nation's lar...
Key takeaway The exact source of one of the nation's largest outbreaks in years of cyclospora infections is still not known.
Why this matters in Tomball News
In Tomball , where summer farmers' markets and backyard gardens are in full swing, residents should be particularly vigilant about produce safety. The cyclospora outbreak, which has affected over 1,500 people in Michigan and prompted investigations in 30 other states, serves as a warning to local consumers to take extra precautions when handling and consuming fresh fruits and vegetables. As the parasite is commonly linked to contaminated irrigation water, Tomball's gardeners and farmers should ensure their water sources are safe and clean. Additionally, residents who frequent local restaurants and grocery stores should ask about the origin and handling of their produce, as contaminated foods can be distributed through multiple channels. By practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water, and being mindful of produce sources, Tomball residents can enjoy the city's summer harvest while minimizing their risk of infection.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . Tomball News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 10, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Scores of people in the United States have been sickened by a parasite commonly linked to contaminated fresh produce that can cause weeks of watery diarrhea. But there are ways to protect yourself and still enjoy summer’s bounty of fruits and vegetables.The exact source of one of the nation's lar...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 10, 2026 by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for Tomball News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how Tomball News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Tomball News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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