Stomach bug that causes 'explosive' diarrhea on rise in Louisiana
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An outbreak of a gut-wrecking parasite is plaguing the U.S. as health officials investigate what's driving an increase in cases, including in Louisiana.
The big picture: The gastrointestinal illness — called cyclosporiasis — is caused by a microscopic parasite spreading through contaminated food.
Driving the news: At least 145 cases across 17 states were recorded in the U.S. between May 1 and June 16, per data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- But the CDC's nationwide case totals are current through mid-June, and states are already reporting much higher figures of their own.
- In Louisiana, state health officials are investigating 23 reported cases, a Department of Health spokesperson tells Axios New Orleans. Many of those cases are still under investigation, she said, so the number is subject to change, but it's just above the 20 reported cases for the same time frame last year.
Threat level: Health officials do not consider cyclosporiasis to be life-threatening.
- Symptoms, which include "explosive" or "watery" diarrhea, can last for a few days or even a month or longer without treatment, the CDC says. Some symptoms, like diarrhea, may disappear but then return.
How it works: Cyclosporiasis — which is caused by an infection with the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis — does not transmit person-to-person, per the CDC.
- Instead, the condition often spreads from food or water contaminated with feces.
- Recently, cases in the U.S. have come from eating contaminated produce, especially during the summer.
What to watch for: Experts recommend washing produce under running water before eating or cooking.
- Firm produce items, like cucumbers or watermelons, should be scrubbed with a clean brush.
- Bruised or damaged areas of fruit should be cut off, experts say.