Parasitic infection causing diarrhea now in Kentucky

Key Points:

• Cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing severe "explosive" diarrhea, are rising across at least 28 U.S. states, including Kentucky, with nearly 1,000 cases reported recently in Michigan alone.
• The parasite Cyclospora contaminates raw fruits and vegetables such as berries, salad greens, cilantro, and basil, especially during summer months, making thorough washing and manual cleaning of produce crucial for prevention.
• Symptoms typically include intense watery diarrhea lasting days to weeks, and while most people recover with supportive care like hydration and rest, some may require antibiotics if symptoms are severe or persistent.
• The infection does not spread person-to-person but through ingestion of contaminated food, and the source of the current outbreaks remains unidentified; health officials advise washing hands and produce carefully and refrigerating cut or cooked produce promptly.
• Individuals experiencing persistent diarrhea, fever, nausea, or inability to maintain hydration, especially young children, elderly, or those with medical conditions, should seek medical evaluation and testing for appropriate treatment.