What is cyclosporiasis, the parasitic illness causing ‘explosive’ diarrhea?
Summary
Cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasite infection causing severe diarrhea, have sharply increased in the United States, especially in Michigan and Ohio. Health officials have not yet identified the source, and they advise washing and cooking produce to reduce risk.Key Facts
- Cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite called Cyclospora, which spreads through food or water contaminated with human waste.
- Symptoms often include watery diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and fatigue, lasting from days to over a month.
- Michigan has reported nearly 1,000 cases recently, much higher than its usual 50 cases per year.
- Ohio reported 177 cases by early July, and other states have smaller outbreaks.
- The CDC reported 145 cases across 17 states as of mid-June, but this is lower than actual numbers.
- The parasite commonly spreads in summer and is linked to raw fruits, vegetables, and herbs like basil, cilantro, and spinach.
- Washing produce helps but may not remove all parasites; cooking vegetables is more effective.
- The current outbreak has caused hospitalizations but no deaths have been reported so far.
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