Key facts
- The CDC is investigating an outbreak of cyclosporiasis across 18 US states.
- Over 400 cases have been reported, with symptoms including severe watery diarrhea.
- The parasite, Cyclospora, is believed to spread through contaminated raw produce and water.
- Michigan is experiencing a significant outbreak, with over 300 cases reported since June 22.
- The CDC is working with the FDA and local officials to identify the source of the illnesses.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is actively investigating a parasitic illness, cyclosporiasis, that has caused over 400 cases of severe watery diarrhea across 18 states. The parasite, Cyclospora, is known to spread through raw produce and contaminated water, leading to symptoms such as cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, and vomiting.
Between May 1 and June 16, 145 cases were reported across 17 states, with 20 resulting in hospitalization. While cyclosporiasis is not typically life-threatening and no deaths have been reported in this outbreak, the CDC is working with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and local officials to identify potential sources and clusters of illness. States like New York, Texas, Illinois, and Michigan have been particularly affected.
Michigan is currently investigating a large and growing outbreak with more than 300 cases reported since June 22, a significant increase from its typical annual count of around 50. New York has also seen a notable rise in cases. Health officials are examining various potential food sources, as individuals became ill after eating food within the US and had no recent travel history. The CDC noted that there is no immediate evidence of a single, multi-state outbreak linking all cases.
Cyclosporiasis is seasonal in the US, usually peaking between May and August, and has been linked to fresh produce in past outbreaks. The current situation is considered alarming due to the high number of cases and the as-yet unidentified sources. Symptoms typically appear two days to two weeks after ingestion. While severe cases may require antibiotics, most individuals with healthy immune systems recover within days or weeks. The CDC recommends thorough washing of produce and hands, and advises those experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention and report positive tests to local health departments.