CDC Investigates Parasite Behind 'Explosive' Diarrhoea Outbreak in US

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Washington: US health officials are investigating a growing outbreak of cyclospora, a foodborne parasite that causes severe or ‘explosive’watery diarrhoea, with confirmed cases reported across multiple states.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 843 cases in 31 states, while more than 1,500 additional infections are under investigation. Michigan has been the hardest-hit state, reporting an unusually high number of cases.

Cyclospora is usually spread through contaminated fresh produce or water tainted with human waste. Symptoms include explosive watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and weight loss, typically appearing about a week after infection.

Health officials have not yet identified a common food source and no recalls have been issued. The CDC and the US Food and Drug Administration are continuing to investigate the outbreak while urging people to wash produce thoroughly, practise good hand hygiene and seek medical care if diarrhoea lasts more than three days.

Although the illness is rarely life-threatening and no deaths have been reported, it can last for weeks if left untreated. Doctors say the infection can usually be treated effectively with antibiotics.