FILE: At least 18 states are reporting cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasite typically spread in the U.S. through fresh produce in hot weather. (Photo by Michael Nguyen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Cases of cyclosporiasis, the parasite known to cause "explosive diarrhea," are spreading across the U.S. amid the summer heat.
Here’s the latest, according to state and national health officials:
What is cyclosporiasis?
Big picture view:
Cyclosporiasis is a diarrheal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Experts say it’s usually found in developing countries and is spread by food or water contaminated with feces.
In the U.S., the parasite is typically spread through fresh produce in hot weather. It doesn’t spread from person-to-person.
RELATED: CDC investigates parasite outbreak linked to 'explosive' diarrhea across 17 states
Dig deeper:
Public health officials haven’t linked the most recent outbreak to a specific type of produce grower or supplies, or a specific type of produce as a potential source of the outbreak.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services released a list of produce that has been tied to previous outbreaks, including:
- Bagged salad mixes and kits (pre-cut lettuce blends with romaine, iceberg, red cabbage, carrots)
- Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves)
- Fresh basil
- Raspberries
- Snow peas
- Green onions (scallions)
Cyclosporiasis cases by state
Local perspective:
The CDC says 17 states have reported cases as of June 16, but that doesn’t include the current outbreak in Michigan, which soared to over 700 cases this week. Case counts are likely higher than the current CDC data, and the illness could be appearing in other states that aren’t on the map. Here’s a look at the most current data available:
Preventing cyclosporiasis
What you can do:
Health officials say rinsing your produce with running water and rubbing the surface of the fruit or vegetable can help to prevent the illness. They also say to consider frozen over fresh, although that doesn’t completely eliminate the risk. It’s safest if it’s cooked.
Cyclosporiasis symptoms
Timeline:
Symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and may include:
- Frequent watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Abdominal cramps and bloating
- Nausea (vomiting is less common)
- Low-grade fever
For people who do not get treatment, health experts say the illness may last for a few days to over a month. Symptoms could go away and then return one or more times.
Cyclosporiasis treatment
If you experience sudden, ongoing diarrhea, reach out to your health care provider and your local health department.
Symptoms can be improved with an antibiotic.
The Source: This article includes information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and previous FOX Local reporting. FOX’s Megan Ziegler contributed.