An 'explosive' diarrhea illness is spreading. See prevention tips

As an explosive diarrhea-inducing illness called cyclosporiasis continues to spread throughout the U.S., government agencies are putting out advisories to help people take steps to prevent contracting it.

Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic foodborne illness that's caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The illness has resulted in 843 confirmed cases and 86 hospitalizations among 31 states as of July 9, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No deaths have been reported.

The number of illnesses is likely higher as the CDC works with states to update numbers when cases are confirmed. Michigan alone has reported more than 700 cases to USA TODAY as of July 7.

Here's what to know and tips for staying safe.

How are people getting sick?

The majority of people contracted the illness after eating food in the U.S., according to the CDC. However, at least 343 cases were from individuals who ate or drank food or water while traveling outside the U.S. within 14 days before getting sick.

People who contracted the illness range in age from 15 to 89 years, with a median age of 46, according to the CDC.

Cyclosporiasis is not contagious from person-to-person, but spreads through oral ingestion, usually of fruits and vegetables, after contact with contaminated feces.

What are symptoms of cyclosporiasis?

The illness can cause gastrointestinal symptoms that persist for weeks or even longer, according to the Food and Drug Administration, including:

• Watery diarrhea, with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Stomach cramps/pain
• Bloating
• Increased gas
• Nausea
• Fatigue

People may also experience vomiting, body aches, headache, low-grade fever, and other flu-like symptoms. 

What foods have been connected to cyclosporiasis outbreaks?

Officials have not yet determined a source of the current outbreak. However, the following items have been connected to previous cyclosporiasis outbreaks:

• Bagged salad kits and leafy greens
• Raspberries and other berries
• Green onions
• Cilantro, basil and parsley

The last major cluster of cases investigated by the FDA was a 2024 outbreak linked to parsley that sickened nearly 70 people across five states.

Ways to help prevent illness

The CDC is advising people to take the following precautions when handling fruits and vegetables:

• Wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables and after eating, cutting or cooking.
• Scrub firm fruits like melons and cucumbers with a clean produce brush.
• Cut any damaged or bruised areas of fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating.
• Refrigerate fruits and vegetables within two hours.
• Sanitize display cases and refrigerators used to store fresh produce.
• Clean and sanitize cutting boards and tools.

Contributing: Janet Loehrke, George Petras and Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY

Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter. Reach her at [email protected].