CDC Warns of Parasitic Infection Spreading Across 17 States This Summer
The CDC has issued a warning about cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing severe gastrointestinal illness, spreading across 17 states. Health officials are urging people to wash produce thoroughly and report symptoms to their doctors.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a warning this week about cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that has spread to 17 states this summer.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which is typically found in contaminated food or water. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. The illness can last weeks if untreated.
The CDC did not identify a single food source linked to the current outbreak. Investigators are working to trace the cases and determine whether a common product is responsible.
Health officials are advising people to wash fresh produce thoroughly before eating it, though they note that washing does not eliminate all risk. Cooking food to proper temperatures kills the parasite.
People who develop persistent diarrhea or gastrointestinal symptoms lasting more than a few days should see a doctor. Cyclosporiasis is treatable with antibiotics, but it requires a specific medication called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Standard anti-diarrheal drugs do not clear the infection.
The CDC said the states affected span multiple regions of the country. Officials are asking healthcare providers to test patients with prolonged gastrointestinal illness for the parasite.
