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Outbreak of diarrhea caused by cyclosporiasis spreading in US with cases reported in CA, CDC says
ABC7 Los Angeles • • general
Key Points:
- Nearly 3,000 cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal infection, have been reported across 32 states, with Michigan experiencing the highest number at 1,562 cases and 44 hospitalizations.
- The CDC believes the actual number of infections is higher due to underreporting, as some individuals recover without medical care or testing.
- The outbreak is suspected to be linked to contaminated food, but no specific produce, grower, or supplier has been identified; cyclosporiasis is commonly associated with imported fresh produce like raspberries, basil, and cilantro.
- Symptoms include watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, typically appearing about one week after infection, which complicates tracing the source.
- Treatment involves a 10-day course of the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and prevention measures include washing produce thoroughly, refrigerating pre-cut items, and practicing good hand hygiene.
