As an explosive diarrhea-inducing disease called cyclosporiasis continues to spread across the US, government agencies are offering advice to help people take steps to prevent it.
Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic food-borne disease caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora catenensis. As of July 9, there have been 843 confirmed cases of the disease in 31 states and 86 people hospitalized, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No death has been reported.
The number of illnesses is likely higher as the CDC works with states to update the numbers as cases are confirmed. Michigan alone has reported more than 700 cases to USA TODAY as of July 7.
Here’s what to know and tips to stay safe.
How are people getting sick?
According to the CDC, most people in America contract this disease after eating food. However, at least 343 cases were from individuals who ate or drank food or water while traveling outside the US within the 14 days before becoming ill.
According to the CDC, people who have had the disease range in age from 15 to 89 years, with the average age being 46 years.
Cyclosporiasis is not contagious from person to person, but is spread by oral consumption of fruits and vegetables, usually after contact with contaminated feces.
What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?
According to the Food and Drug Administration, the illness can cause gastrointestinal symptoms that persist for weeks or longer, including:
- Watery diarrhea, with frequent, sometimes explosive bowel movements
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- stomach cramps/pain
- Swelling
- gas rise
- nausea
- Tiredness
People may also experience vomiting, body aches, headache, mild fever and other flu-like symptoms.
Which foods are associated with cyclosporiasis outbreaks?
Authorities have not yet determined the source of the current outbreak. However, the following things have been linked to previous cyclosporiasis outbreaks:
- Salad kits and leafy vegetables in bags
- Raspberries and other berries
- green onion
- Coriander, Basil and Parsley
The last major cluster of cases investigated by the FDA was a 2024 outbreak linked to parsley that sickened nearly 1,000 people in 37 states.
Ways to help prevent disease
The CDC is advising people to take the following precautions when handling fruits and vegetables:
- Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables and after eating, cutting or cooking.
- Scrub hard fruits like melons and cucumbers with a clean produce brush.
- Cut off any damaged or bruised parts of fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating them.
- Refrigerate fruits and vegetables within two hours.
- Clean display cases and refrigerators used to store fresh produce.
- Keep cutting boards and tools clean and sanitary.