A parasite outbreak causing severe diarrhoea has affected several US states, with thousands of people reporting infections in recent weeks. Health officials are monitoring the rise in cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora.
The infection mainly spreads through contaminated food or water. The most common symptom is frequent, watery, and sometimes explosive diarrhoea. Health experts say the illness is usually not life threatening, but it can cause serious discomfort and may require medical treatment.
Thousands of Cyclosporiasis Cases Reported Across US
The outbreak has affected more than a dozen US states since early May. Health departments have reported rising infection numbers, especially in Michigan, where nearly 1,000 cases were recorded within a two week period.
Other states have also seen increased cases. Illinois reported 141 infections by early July, while Ohio recorded 177 cases of cyclosporiasis.
Earlier data from health officials showed 145 confirmed cases between 1 May and 16 June. During that period, around 20 people required hospital treatment. No deaths have been linked to the current outbreak.
Experts believe the actual number of infections may be higher because some people recover without visiting a doctor or getting tested.
What Is Cyclosporiasis and How Does It Spread?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the Cyclospora parasite. People usually become infected after eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite.
The illness does not usually spread directly from one person to another. Health experts explain that transmission mainly happens through contaminated food and water.
Previous cyclosporiasis outbreaks have often been connected to fresh produce, including raw fruits and vegetables. However, officials have not yet identified a specific food product, supplier, or source behind the latest outbreak.
