'Explosive diarrhea' has now been reported in 31 states: What is known about the cyclosporiasis outbreak and how to protect yourself from infection

An outbreak of an intestinal infection causing diarrhea, nausea, and weakness has been reported in the United States. Cases have already been identified in 31 states. The source of the infection has not yet been determined, according to NPRWhat to do if you become infected explains The Hill.

As of July 9, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had received reports of 843 cases of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal disease caused by the Cyclospora parasite.

However, the actual number of infections, according to experts, is significantly higher. Official statistics only include cases directly reported by states to the CDC. Furthermore, there is a lag between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis of the disease, and many people carry the infection without seeking medical attention. In Michigan alone, 1,562 cases of cyclosporiasis had been reported as of July 10.

On the subject: 'Explosive diarrhea' caused by intestinal parasite is spreading in the US, with cases growing rapidly.

The CDC reports that 86 people have been hospitalized nationwide as of July 9. There have been no deaths.

Infection occurs through consumption of food or water contaminated with the parasite. Previously, outbreaks were primarily associated with fresh vegetables and leafy greens. In 2018, McDonald's removed salads from its menu in 14 states after federal health officials linked them to dozens of cases. In 2013, contaminated lettuce imported from Mexico was suspected of causing illness in 400 people in the United States.

The CDC notes that an increase in cyclosporiasis cases is typical for spring and summer. However, on July 10, the agency reported that several states have experienced a sharper increase in cases over the past two weeks than during the same period last year.

Where are cases of cyclosporiasis recorded?

Since early May, cases have been reported in different parts of the country, from California and Texas to Florida.

The most serious situation appears to be in the Midwest and Northeast, including Michigan and New York.

The Ohio Department of Health reported 177 cases of cyclosporiasis as of July 2, with the majority occurring in June. Department Commissioner Bruce Vanderhoff emphasized that this is a serious illness that can cause dehydration. Those infected often require emergency medical care, so it should be taken seriously.

According to the CDC, the ages of those infected range from 5 to 88 years old.

The overall number of cases nationwide is expected to rise. This is due to the approximately six-week lag between the onset of the disease and its reflection in federal statistics.

What caused the outbreak?

There is no answer to this question yet. The CDC continues to work to determine the source(s) of the infection.

Specifically, specialists interview those infected to determine what foods they consumed. However, symptoms can appear within a minimum of two days and a maximum of two weeks or more after infection, so people are not always able to accurately recall everything they ate during this time.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), outbreaks of cyclosporiasis in the country in previous years have been linked to raspberries, basil, cilantro, sugar snap peas, and lettuce.

How to reduce the risk of infection

A reliable method of protection remains heat treatment of food: when heated to 158 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 70 degrees Celsius), the Cyclospora parasite dies.

Health authorities recommend thoroughly washing all fresh vegetables, greens, and herbs, although completely removing the parasite this way is difficult.

In addition, it is recommended to cut off damaged or bruised areas of fruits and vegetables before use.

It is also important to follow basic food hygiene rules: for example, washing your hands with soap before and after handling fresh food.

What to do if you have already contracted a parasite

People who suspect they have cyclosporiasis and experience dehydration or severe diarrhea are advised to consult a doctor. The disease is usually treated with antibiotics.

The main symptom, according to the CDC and Cleveland Clinic, is frequent watery diarrhea, which can be loud and even "explosive."

Other symptoms include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, bloating, belching, gas, low-grade fever, and extreme weakness.

A stool test is required to confirm cyclosporiasis.

"For some people, the illness resolves on its own within a few days," said Dr. Katie Teoktisto of Baylor Scott & White. "If you have stomach upset that lasts more than a week or two, it's likely something unusual. People with these symptoms should see their doctor."

According to Teoktisto, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems may have a more severe case of the parasite. They are at risk of relapse.

The doctor noted that there are various treatment options: antibiotics (according to the Cleveland Clinic), antidiarrheal medications, and rehydration. If you are allergic to sulfonamides, your doctor will recommend other treatments.

According to the CDC, people with healthy immune systems may recover on their own, but others may remain ill for a few days to a month or longer. Symptoms may come and go, and there is a risk of the illness becoming prolonged and severe. Without treatment, cyclosporiasis can last a month or more.

Fortunately, Cyclospora is not transmitted from person to person.

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