# CDC Warns of Parasite Outbreak Across 17 States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning about cyclospora cayetanensis, a parasite causing severe gastrointestinal illness across at least 17 states. Cases have been reported in multiple regions, prompting public health officials to alert healthcare providers and the public about prevention measures.
Cyclospora infection causes acute, watery diarrhea along with abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 10 days after exposure and can last weeks if untreated. The infection occurs when people consume contaminated food or water containing the parasite's oocysts, microscopic spores that survive standard chlorine treatment.
The parasite has been linked to contaminated produce in previous outbreaks, particularly fresh berries, lettuce, and other raw vegetables imported from endemic regions. The CDC recommends consumers thoroughly wash all produce under running water before eating, even pre-packaged items marked as pre-washed. Cooking food to temperatures above 160 degrees Fahrenheit kills the parasite.
Healthcare providers should consider cyclospora in their differential diagnosis for patients with prolonged diarrhea lasting more than a few days. The infection responds to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), an antibiotic combination. Doctors should test for cyclospora specifically, as standard stool tests may miss the parasite.
People at higher risk include those with compromised immune systems, though healthy individuals also develop infection. Dehydration presents the primary concern during illness. Infected individuals should drink electrolyte solutions and seek medical care if diarrhea persists beyond several days.
The CDC continues monitoring the outbreak to identify the contamination source. Until the source is identified