United States faces cyclosporiasis outbreak with over 10,000 cases

A significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a disease caused by the parasite ‘Cyclospora cayetanensis’, is spreading across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been over 10,000 confirmed cases across 47 states, with more than 12,000 additional cases under surveillance.

The parasite is primarily transmitted through contaminated water or fresh produce, such as cilantro or lettuce. Because the parasite is resistant to chlorine, it can be difficult to eliminate, making thorough washing of fresh foods essential. While human-to-human transmission is rare, the infection causes intense, watery diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and abdominal cramps.

In severe cases, the resulting dehydration can lead to organ failure, specifically affecting the kidneys. At least two deaths have been reported in Michigan, and 517 people have been hospitalized nationwide.