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What is Cyclospora cayetanensis? CDC reports parasite causing stomach illness across US, including Texas
KSAT • • general
Key Points:
- The CDC reports an outbreak of Cyclospora cayetanensis, a parasite causing serious stomach and intestinal illness, with at least 145 cases across 17 states, including Texas, and 20 hospitalizations but no deaths.
- The infection spreads through ingestion of contaminated produce or water, often linked to fruits and vegetables contaminated by human fecal matter.
- Symptoms primarily include severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, and nausea, with illness duration ranging from a few days to over a month.
- Health officials advise washing produce thoroughly, washing hands with soap and water (not relying on hand sanitizer), avoiding swallowing recreational water, and keeping those with diarrhea out of public pools.
- San Antonio Metro Health is monitoring the situation but has not reported any local cases or identified a common source among confirmed cases.
