Discover the Most Common Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis, The Illness Often Referred to as the “Explosive Diarrhea” Infection
As cases of stomach parasite infections continue to increase across the country, linked to contaminated food items commonly found in grocery stores, you may be concerned about what this means for you and your loved ones. The best precaution is to understand the parasitic infection by recognizing its symptoms and knowing how to reduce your risk of exposure.
What is the Current Stomach Parasite Outbreak?
You may have heard reports about a stomach illness spreading across the United States that causes severe, sometimes explosive, diarrhea and has been linked to contaminated foods commonly purchased at grocery stores. The outbreak is spreading rapidly, with thousands of reported cases across more than 30 states and case numbers continuing to rise. In Indiana, reports indicate there are between 11 and 30 confirmed cases.
Unlike typical stomach bugs, cyclosporiasis, often called explosive diarrhea illness, is caused not by a virus or bacteria but by consuming food or water contaminated with the Cyclospora parasite. The parasite originates in human feces and can contaminate water used to irrigate crops, making fresh produce one of the most common sources of infection. Once contaminated, fruits and vegetables can carry the parasite to consumers.
Health officials are still investigating the source of the current outbreak and have not identified a single food responsible for all cases. However, previous outbreaks have been linked to foods such as:
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Salad mixes
- Lettuce
- Other fresh fruits and vegetables
Although cyclosporiasis cases tend to increase during the summer months, the current outbreak is among the largest reported in recent years.
Symptoms of a Stomach Parasite Illness
The most common symptom of cyclosporiasis is frequent, watery diarrhea that can sometimes be severe. People infected with the parasite may also experience:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Stomach cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Low-grade fever
Please note that anyone of any age can be affected and that symptoms typically appear about one week after exposure but may take up to two weeks to develop, and without treatment, symptoms can last for several weeks or even longer. The main cause of concern is that ongoing diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which, if severe enough, may require medical care.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of a stomach parasite is important to seek a proper diagnosis and care from medical professionals.
How to Prevent Stomach Parasite Illness
The current stomach parasite bug is typically not spread from person to person, but people become infected by consuming contaminated food or water. Here are steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved one:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling fresh produce.
- Rinse all fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking them.
- Scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
- Remove and discard damaged or bruised portions of produce.
- Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours.
- Thoroughly cook produce when appropriate, as heat can help destroy the parasite.
Please note, while washing produce is important, it may not completely eliminate the risk of contamination.
We’re Here for You 24/7!
NW Indiana ER & Hospital is dedicated to providing compassionate care for you and your loved ones, any day, anytime. Our skilled team offers prompt diagnosis through advanced on-site laboratory testing and can begin treatment quickly to help you recover as soon as possible. If you’re experiencing severe diarrhea, dehydration, or other concerning symptoms, our experienced providers can evaluate your condition and help you return to your normal activities as quickly as possible.
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Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, NW Indiana ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
