Cyclosporiasis: Number of parasitic stomach bug cases growing
The CDC is tracking a significant increase in cyclosporiasis cases across 31 U.S. states, a parasitic gastrointestinal illness linked to contaminated produce. Health experts advise thorough washing of fruits and vegetables to prevent infection.
Why it matters
Public health outbreaks require timely awareness to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses and ensure proper food safety practices.
ATLANTA - The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is monitoring a spike in cases of cyclosporiasis , a parasitic gastrointestinal illness.
The CDC says there have been more than 843 confirmed cases in 31 states, including over a dozen cases in Georgia. But the number of people sick is likely higher than the number reported. The CDC says that’s because some recover without needing medical attention or being tested for the parasite.
“I had a major loss of appetite,” said Robble Deezle, who recovered from cyclosporiasis. “I was very tired because of the sheer amount of times I was going to the bathroom.”
Deezle lives in Michigan, the state reporting the highest number of cyclosporiasis cases, according to the CDC. He said he had heard of the illness, but never expected to get sick from it.
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