The US continues to see a significant rise in foodborne illnesses caused by the bacterium Salmonella and the parasite Cyclospora.The infections have sickened thousands of people, led to hospitalizations and prompted several food product recalls across the country. The CDC estimates that Salmonella causes more than 1 million foodborne illnesses in the United States every year.SalmonellaThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said a Salmonella outbreak linked to jalapeño peppers has infected 431 people across 32 states. This is up from 345 cases in 27 states reported earlier this month. The CDC said the outbreak, which began between June 19 and August 2, has so far resulted in 57 hospitalizations and no deaths.The infections have been linked to jalapeño peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico, distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors. More than 90% of people interviewed reported eating at a Mexican-style restaurant before becoming ill, including at Chipotle Mexican Grill and QDOBA, the CDC said.Chipotle has reportedly switched its jalapeño supplier, while QDOBA restaurants have stopped using the ingredient.Symptoms of Salmonella InfectionSalmonella illness usually develops 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and typically lasts four to seven days. Common symptoms include:DiarrheaFeverAbdominal crampsHow To Reduce Salmonella Risk If you have recalled jalapeño peppers at home, do not eat them.Wash your hands with soap after handling food and during food preparation.Clean chopping boards and utensils after preparing food.Check food hygiene ratings when choosing catering outlets.CyclosporaThe CDC’s latest report showed 15,716 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in the US. The confirmed cases, reported across 47 states, have led to 828 hospitalisations and two deaths as of August 17. At least 11,841 additional cases of cyclosporiasis may require further investigation and analysis, the CDC said.The CDC and FDA are also investigating at least six other clusters for which sources have not yet been confirmed.Michigan, the hardest-hit state in the 17-state cyclosporiasis outbreak, reported 13,909 cases linked to the parasitic disease last week. However, state officials believe that the outbreak may be over.The cyclosporiasis outbreak is one of the largest foodborne illness events in recent US history. The illness is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which can lead to diarrhea, nausea and other gastrointestinal symptoms.How To Reduce Your Risk of CyclosporaCheck whether recently purchased iceberg lettuce was sourced from Taylor Farms de Mexico, Guanajuato.The recall includes:12-ounce and 24-ounce Iceberg Salad with best-by dates July 18–August 38-ounce and 16-ounce Shredded Lettuce with best-by dates July 18–August 3Discard or return any recalled products. An additional 33 recalled products were supplied to restaurants and are unlikely to be in home refrigerators.Avoid eating recalled shredded iceberg lettuce.Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water, even if labelled pre-washed.Choose whole heads of lettuce over bagged greens when possible. Remove the outer leaves and wash the inner leaves thoroughly.Cook produce whenever possible, as heat is the most effective way to kill Cyclospora.Follow safe food-handling practices and stay updated on food recalls.