Cases of cyclosporiasis, a stomach-churning parasitic infection that can cause explosive diarrhea, have climbed into the thousands and have been reported in nearly every state, including Tennessee.
There have been 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases of the illness since May 1, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in its weekly update on July 28, an increase of more than 2,500 since its last report on July 21.
Cases have also now been recorded in 45 states, up from 41 last week. More than 11,500 additional cases, primarily in Michigan and Ohio, have not yet been confirmed by laboratories, the CDC said.
There have been 423 hospitalizations and no deaths, per the agency.
As previously reported byUSA TODAY, federal health authorities are
still investigating the sources of what they believe to be multiple separate outbreaks, the largest of which is centered in Michigan. The state reported more than 10,000 cases of cyclosporiasis on July 29. That number differs from the CDC data because they have not yet been officially confirmed and reported back to the federal agency for counting.
This largest outbreak has been linked to iceberg lettuce grown by produce giant Taylor Farms in central Mexico, prompting the company to initiate a recall on July 17.
"Cyclosporiasis cases may not be limited to these states with known cases," according to the CDC update. "The true number of people sick with cyclosporiasis was likely higher than the number reported. This is because some people recover without medical care and are not tested for Cyclospora."
Here's what else to know in Tennessee.
Cases of cyclosporiasis increase in Tennessee amid national outbreak
According to the latest CDC data, Tennessee has reported between 50 and 199 cases of cyclosporiasis, up from between 11 and 30 cases reported on July 21.
However, the CDC says the true number of cyclosporiasis cases is likely higher, as some people recover without seeking medical care and therefore are never tested for Cyclospora.
What is cyclosporiasis? What are the symptoms?
Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic infection that causes unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms often associated with food poisoning, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. It is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, also known simply as cyclospora, and is usually contracted through contaminated food or water.
While unpleasant, it is not generally known to cause death, and many cases go unreported, as people recover at home without visiting a doctor. It can cause more serious complications in people with compromised immune systems or other underlying health issues.
The most common symptom is watery, frequent and sometimes "explosive" diarrhea, according to the CDC and Cleveland Clinic, though other troubles can include:
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating, including burping and gas, or stomach cramps
- Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
- Fever
- Nausea
Contributing: USA TODAY
Diana Leyva covers trending news and service journalism for The Tennessean. Contact her at Dleyva@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Cases of cyclosporiasis increase in Tennessee amid national outbreak. See how cases have risen
