More than half of U.S. states have reported outbreaks of cyclosporiasis, an infection caused by a microscopic parasite that is causing explosive diarrhea. Michigan is the worst affected, as the state has diagnosed more than 1,000 cases in a two-week period. But 31 states have reported outbreaks, with patients becoming infected by consuming food or water containing this parasite. No death has been reported so far due to this infection.
Cyclosporiasis cases in the US
There were 843 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in the US between May 1 and July 9, according to data released Thursday by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).There are likely hundreds more, with the public health agency saying Friday that it was aware of more than 1,500 cases, with more analysis needed to confirm the disease.The CDC said no deaths were reported and 86 people were hospitalized.After Michigan, New York has reported the highest number of cases so far. State health officials said on July 8 that about 300 cases were reported there.In Illinois, public health officials reported 141 cases on July 7, calling it a “higher than average” figure, and Ohio reported 177 cases of cyclosporiasis, according to officials there.
what happens to the infected
According to the CDC, cyclosporiasis is an intestinal disease caused by a microscopic parasite. People can become infected by consuming food or water containing the parasite. According to the CDC, the illness is usually not life-threatening, and is less common than other foodborne illnesses like salmonella and E. coli.People who are infected with Cyclospora may or may not experience symptoms. The public health agency says the disease usually causes diarrhea “with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements.”If untreated, the illness may last from a few days to more than a month, and symptoms may return after they subside.
Michigan issues advisories for restaurants, kitchens
As the number of cases remains high in Michigan, the Michigan Department of Health is asking restaurants and kitchens to ensure green vegetables are thoroughly washed. Cooking raspberries and green leafy vegetables when possible, and removing the outer layers of lettuce and green onions are other instructions, although this has not been proven clinically effective.