Is this the culprit behind the spread of explosive diarrhea across the country? Experts think so!
As we’ve reported, a parasite identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as Cyclospora cayetanensis, also known as Cyclosporiasis, has infected hundreds of people in the United States since May. At this time, the CDC reports that 843 people are suffering from the nasty illness, which causes nausea, vomiting, and intense explosive diarrhea, across 31 states — though the agency recognizes the case count could be even higher. There are currently 86 hospitalizations. Zero deaths have been reported, thankfully.
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As for what is causing the outbreak? Although the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite is commonly associated with warmer, more tropical areas, the CDC believes our food is the cause of all this mess! They previously reported it’s typically transmitted through drinking water or raw produce, including lettuce, cilantro, basil, and other leafy greens contaminated by feces. The agency hadn’t identified the specific culprit behind the cases in the US. However, experts in Michigan, which has confirmed over 2,600 cases of cyclosporiasis since June 22, believe they may have solved the mystery!
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services on Monday, health officials suspect the source of the outbreak is a common household food item — lettuce or salad greens! Whoa! Experts say lettuce has been the most commonly reported food eaten by people who have become sick since late June, but they have not yet identified the exact product, grower, or supplier linked to the outbreak.
What should you do to prevent the illness from spreading more? Moving forward, health officials advise people to buy whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-washed, bagged lettuce, or pre-packaged salad kits if possible. They then say to remove and throw out the outer two or three leaves from those heads, wash the remaining leaves thoroughly, and cook any of the produce purchased. Take notes, everyone! It’s better to be safe than sorry! The last thing you want is to get this nasty parasite when you should be enjoying the summer!
Health officials also have not entirely ruled out other fruits and vegetables at this time, so it is best to continue to wash and/or cook those! What are your reactions to the latest update, Perezcious readers? Let us know in the comments (below)!
[Image via Universal Pictures/YouTube]