Cyclosporiasis Cases Are Surging Across 48 States—Here Are the Foods Linked to the ‘Explosive Diarrhea’ Parasite

More than 17,000 cases of the gastrointestinal parasitic infection cyclosporiasis have been recorded across the country, marking a significant increase compared to past years.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received reports of 17,180 laboratory-confirmed cases since May 1, resulting in at least two deaths and 922 hospitalizations. Cases have been recorded in 48 different states along with Washington D.C., per the CDC , with the state of Michigan reporting the highest concentration.

This is significantly more than past years. Last year, for example, the agency recorded just 1,180 cases between May 1 and Aug. 31.

The actual number of cases in the current outbreak may also be higher since the CDC noted it can take about six weeks from the start of symptoms to receive case information, and some people who contract cyclospora recover without being tested and without medical care. The agency said it was aware of at least 11,844 additional cases that had not been laboratory confirmed.

A seasonal disease, most cases of cyclosporiasis in the United States tend to occur in the spring and summer between May 1 and Aug. 31.

Primarily spread by consuming contaminated water or fresh produce, symptoms of cyclosporiasis can include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea , and fatigue. Less common symptoms can include vomiting, body aches, headache, low-grade fever, or other flu-like symptoms.

Lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico has been confirmed as the source of a large number of cases during the ongoing outbreak, according to the CDC . However, the agency noted "best-by dates for recalled Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce have passed and they should no longer be available in stores or restaurants." More than 11,000 cases and the two recorded deaths have been tied directly to this.

The agency said it continues to investigate other potential causes for the current widespread outbreak.

Historically in the U.S., cyclospora has been linked to bagged salads and salad mixes, basil, cilantro, mesclun lettuce, parsley, raspberries, snow peas, and sweet peas, according to the Cleveland Clinic .

Those who do become infected can treat it with a combination of antidiarrheal medications and hydration (like water or electrolyte sports drinks). In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe antibiotics like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX).

Infection can resolve on its own, but symptoms can last for a month or longer if left untreated.

To prevent infection, the Cleveland Clinic recommended people cook fruits and vegetables to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit and thoroughly wash or peel any fresh fruits and veggies before eating them.

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure