Diarrhea-inducing parasite spreading across US
Posted on: Jul 02, 2026 10:19 IST | Posted by: Rt
US wellness authorities ar struggling to describe the seed of a foodborne sickness that causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. At least 145 people across 17 states have tested positive for the cyclospora cayetanensis parasite.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has acknowledged that there are likely far more cases that are going undiagnosed.
Twenty people have been hospitalized due to the outbreak since early May, although no fatalities have been reported.
New York has emerged as a major hotspot, with between 31 and 80 people contracting the parasite.
Cases of cyclosporiasis have also been identified in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin.
The illness typically causes explosive, watery diarrhea, along with a range of other gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, gas, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Some people also report fatigue and fever, while others develop no symptoms at all.
Cyclosporiasis is usually contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with feces, with symptoms typically appearing about a week after exposure, according to the CDC.
While the illness can be treated with antibiotics, it is not detected by most routine laboratory tests, resulting in a considerable number of undiagnosed cases. If left untreated, the infection can last for over a month, with recurring bouts of diarrhea being its most characteristic feature.
The microscopic parasite is endemic in tropical and subtropical countries, including Guatemala, Peru, and Nepal. There is no evidence that it is capable of human-to-human transmission.
Since most of the individuals diagnosed with cyclosporiasis during the course of the ongoing outbreak had not recently traveled outside the US, health officials suspect that the source is domestically distributed produce.
“Local, state, and federal (CDC, FDA) public health authorities are investigating several clusters of cases in more than one state. Investigations to identify potential sources are ongoing,” according to officials.
Previous cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the US have been linked to cilantro, raspberries, sweet peas, lettuce, and basil imported from Mexico.
The CDC recommends washing leafy greens with cold running water to minimize the risk of exposure.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.