Cyclospora Outbreak Update: Health Agency CDC Extends Ongoing Outbreak of Parasitic Stomach Bug to 15 US States; Probe Underway

Yesterday, health authorities in Michigan reported 2 casualties from Cyclospora, a parasitic stomach bug. Now, federal health agency  Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) has reportedly added 6 more states to the ongoing outbreak. So far 2 casualties have been reported from Cyclospora.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: Health Agency CDC Extends Ongoing Outbreak of Parasitic Stomach Bug to 15 US States

According to a new report by American publication the Washington Post, health agency Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) has broadened its cyclospora outbreak. Previously, the agency was only covering US states but now, it has added 6 states to the list, as cases emerge from different parts of the US. CDC officials have not commented on the report so far.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: MDHHS’ Latest Statement

Recently, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) shared a concerning update about the ongoing cyclospora outbreak. The department shared that both people were facing significant underlying health conditions that might have worsened due to cyclospora and dehydration. 

Other details about the 2 people like names and ages haven’t been publicly disclosed. While Cyclospora can cause intestinal damage, it is not a fatal disease. Michigan, which is currently dealing with close to 11,000 active cases of cyclospora, is often considered to be the epicenter of the ongoing outbreak. 

What is Cyclospora? 

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The disease spreads through indirect human to human transmission. And its symptoms commonly start to show a week after getting infected.

Cyclospora Outbreak Latest News: Symptoms & Treatment 

The common symptoms of Cyclospora include

• Watery Diarrhea (The most common symptom often frequent and severe). 

• Stomach Cramps that include Sharp pain, bloating, and increased gas 

• Loss of Appetite 

• Severe Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and muscle aches.

• Rapid weight loss.

• Nausea & Vomiting due to an upset stomach

• Low grade fever.

Cyclospora Outbreak Latest Update: Cause of the Outbreak

An official cause of the ongoing cyclospora outbreak has not been publicly disclosed. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) are conducting active probes to determine the stomach bug’s origin and cause. However, health officials in the US believe that the contamination of imported fresh produce of some foods like iceberg lettuce and shredded grains might be a major factor. 

Cyclospora Outbreak: List of Affected Areas

The ongoing Cyclospora outbreak has affected the following American states according to the CDC: 

• Michigan 
• Missouri 
• Ohio 
• Indiana
• Kentucky 
• Illinois 
• Pennsylvania 
• Kansas 
• Oklahoma 

The names of the 6 more states, which the CDC reportedly added to its outbreak have not been publicy shared yet.