CDC Investigates Parasite Causing Explosive Diarrhea Across 18 US States
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a cyclospora parasite outbreak that has sickened over 400 people in 18 states, causing watery and explosive diarrhea.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working to identify the source of a parasitic illness that causes severe watery diarrhea, with more than 400 cases reported across 18 states.
The parasite, cyclospora, spreads through raw produce and water contaminated with human feces, leading to the intestinal illness cyclosporiasis. Symptoms include cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, and vomiting. The most common symptom is watery diarrhea with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements, according to the CDC.
Between May 1 and June 16, the CDC recorded 145 cases across 17 states, with 20 requiring hospitalization. The illness is rarely life-threatening, and no deaths have been reported in the current outbreak.
The hardest-hit states are New York, Texas, Illinois, and Michigan. Other states with cases include Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Outside the CDC's count period, Michigan health officials are investigating an unusually high number of cases. Since June 22, the state has reported over 300 cases, compared to its typical annual average of about 50. New York has seen 107 cases since May 1, a significant increase.
The CDC is collaborating with the Food and Drug Administration and local authorities to investigate case clusters in several states. There is no immediate evidence of a single multi-state outbreak linking all cases.
The illness is seasonal, with cases peaking between May and August. The CDC advises thorough washing of fresh produce, hands, and kitchen surfaces. People experiencing symptoms should consult a healthcare provider and report positive tests to local health departments.
