US Health Officials Monitor Diarrhea-Causing Parasite As Investigators Search For Source

Health officials in the United States are investigating a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that can cause severe or "explosive" diarrhoea, with the source of the infections yet to be identified. The outbreak has affected multiple states, particularly across the Midwest, prompting public health authorities to intensify surveillance and trace the source of exposure. Michigan has reported the highest number of infections, recording 1,251 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis as of Thursday, marking a 26 per cent increase from the previous day.

According to state health officials, the majority of cases are concentrated in the southeastern part of Michigan, making it the worst-affected area in the current outbreak. Neighbouring Ohio has also reported a significant rise in infections, with more than 360 confirmed cases, while New York and Illinois are experiencing increasing numbers as well. Since May 1, New York City has recorded 273 cases, and local health authorities said investigations into the source of the outbreak remain ongoing. Cyclosporiasis is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which is typically transmitted through contaminated food or water.

People become infected after consuming fresh produce or other food items contaminated with the parasite. Unlike some gastrointestinal infections, the disease is not usually spread directly from person to person because the parasite requires time outside the human body before becoming infectious. Symptoms commonly include prolonged watery diarrhoea, frequent bowel movements, abdominal cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, bloating and weight loss. Without treatment, symptoms can persist for several weeks and may recur, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as older adults or people with weakened immune systems. Experts believe the actual number of infections could be considerably higher than reported.

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Daniel Griffin, an infectious disease physician and president of the nonprofit Parasites Without Borders, said many cases may go undiagnosed because not everyone with symptoms seeks medical attention or undergoes testing. "When you hear over 1,000 cases, we are probably talking about a lot more people out there just not being diagnosed," Griffin said, highlighting the likelihood of underreporting during the outbreak. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health departments are working to identify the common source of exposure by interviewing patients and examining food consumption patterns. Investigators have not yet linked the outbreak to a specific food product, supplier or distribution network.

Public health officials have advised people to practise good food hygiene by thoroughly washing fresh fruits and vegetables before consumption, maintaining proper hand hygiene and seeking medical care if they experience persistent diarrhoea or dehydration. Cyclosporiasis is treatable with prescribed antibiotics, and early diagnosis can help reduce the duration and severity of illness. As investigations continue, authorities are monitoring infection trends across affected states to determine whether additional preventive measures or food safety advisories are required. Until the source is identified, health experts are urging the public to remain vigilant and report symptoms promptly to healthcare providers.

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