Over 6,000 people in the US have been infected with an "explosive diarrhoea-causing" parasite, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). More than 200 people have been hospitalised as federal agencies intensify their investigation to find the source of the outbreak.
The outbreak has now spread to 34 states. According to the state's health department, Michigan is hardest hit, reporting more than 3,700 cases. Cases have been reported in New York, Ohio, North Carolina, Illinois, Texas, Indiana and New Jersey as well.
No deaths from the recent infections have been reported in the US so far.
According to the CDC, those who were infected "became sick after eating food in the United States" and did not report any travel during the 14 days before they got sick.
Meanwhile, authorities are finding it difficult to identify the source of the infection. Reports suggest that fresh farm produce, such as vegetables (including lettuce) used in salads, might be the culprit. However, there has been no official confirmation on the matter yet.
"One reason the parasite is so hard to track is that it takes one to two weeks for people to fall ill after infection," Jodie Guest, senior vice chair of epidemiology at Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health, told the BBC.
As federal health officials investigate the Cyclospora outbreak, Taco Bell has voluntarily removed some fresh ingredients from select restaurants across the US. The company said that the move is a precaution.
The company, in a statement, emphasised that the health officials have not identified Taco Bell, any of its restaurants, suppliers or ingredients as the source of the outbreak.
What is cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal disease caused by the parasite. It causes watery, and sometimes explosive, diarrhoea and other stomach-related issues. Usually, it spreads from contaminated water or food.
The food poisoning symptoms usually start within a week of ingesting the parasite. If the symptoms are left untreated, it could cause complications including severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance that may take a long time to recover. It is usually not life-threatening.
Common symptoms of cyclosporiasis:
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the main symptoms include:
*Loss of appetite
*Bloating
*Low-grade fever
*Fatigue
*Stomach cramps
*Nausea
*Vomiting
How is the infection transmitted?
Cyclosporiasis spreads through contaminated water or food (faecal-oral route). This may include drinking untreated water or accidentally swallowing contaminated swimming water.
Fruits and veggies tied to cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the US include basil, bagged salads and salad mixes, cilantro, mesclun lettuce, parsley, raspberries, snow peas, and sweet peas.
What should you do if infected?
If you have cyclosporiasis, it’s important to stay hydrated and get whatever nutrition you can. Severe diarrhoea can cause serious complications.
*Get fluids, including water, sports drinks or broth.
*Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
*Eat food however you can, even if it’s small bites at a time.
*Take all antibiotics as prescribed, even if you’re feeling better.
