The fast-moving stomach parasite Cyclospora is rapidly spreading across the country, sickening thousands of Americans across more than 30 states.
The parasite causes an intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis, which commonly triggers watery or explosive diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach cramps or pain, bloating, and increased gas, to name a few.
Of the 31 states tracking infections, Michigan remains the hardest hit, with health officials logging more than 1,500 cases of cyclosporiasis as of July 10.
Over a dozen hospitalizations have been reported since the outbreak began, with symptoms typically lasting anywhere from a few days to a month or longer if left untreated.
While Cyclospora is most common in tropical and subtropical regions, the U.S. faces domestic foodborne outbreaks almost every year, typically driven by imported fresh produce.
This has left state and federal agencies monitoring the situation while performing traceback investigations across regional clusters to identify potential sources of contamination.
As infections continue to spread, let's break down the key steps you can take to help protect yourself from contracting Cyclospora this summer.
According to standard public health guidelines:
DEADLY FLESH-EATING PARASITE POSES RISK TO PETS THIS SUMMER: HERE ARE THE SAFETY TIPS TO KNOW
Within the U.S., the CDC has linked previous seasonal outbreaks to imported produce including:
The CDC officially considers May 1 through August 31 to be peak cyclosporiasis season, as case counts naturally swell during the spring and summer months.
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