‘Explosive Diarrhoea’ Outbreak Grips US: How Researchers Are Hunting Its Source
Health officials have confirmed 1,645 infections since May 1 and say more than 5,100 additional cases are under investigation.
- Since May 1, 1,645 infections with the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis have been confirmed nationwide, with 5,100 additional cases under investigation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Tuesday.
- Outbreaks typically occur during summer as the parasite reproduces through egg-like oocysts requiring warm temperatures between 22°C and 32°C to mature; infection spreads when individuals consume food or water contaminated with human feces.
- Illinois Department of Public Health officials confirmed 277 cases as of Wednesday, including 23 hospitalizations, while Michigan signaled that lettuce or salad greens might be the culprit.
- The Food and Drug Administration recommends cooking produce to 158 degrees to kill the parasite; cookbook author Meathead Goldwyn advises using a digital thermometer, calling it "the ultimate food safety tool."
- Molecular parasitologist Joel Barratt, who formerly led the CDC's parasite surveillance team, said "the number of staff working on these outbreaks is not what it used to be," potentially impeding the investigation.
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Virginia Mercury
Wash your veggies: A parasite causing cramps and diarrhea is on the rise in Virginia
The microscopic parasite cyclospora is transferred to humans through contaminated fruits and vegetables, health officials report. As of July 16, it had made at least 37 people sick so far. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)A parasite that causes intestinal trouble like diarrhea, cramps and bloating is spreading nationwide this summer, but Virginia’s Department of Health said this week there is no evidence to suggest an outbreak in the s…
After the outbreak in the United States, Mayo Clinic revealed what to take and how to stop explosive diarrhea at home and when it is urgent to go to a doctor.
The Independent
The Independent (US)7,000 cases of ‘explosive diarrhea’ parasite under investigation across the US
The agency says it is aware of 5,100 suspected cases, up from 1,500 earlier this week.
‘Explosive diarrhoea’ outbreak grips US: how researchers are hunting its source
Cases have hit record levels, and scientists are racing to pinpoint where the Cyclospora parasite entered the food supply. Cases have hit record levels, and scientists are racing to pinpoint where the Cyclospora parasite entered the food supply.
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