- A cyclospora parasite causing "explosive diarrhea" is rapidly spreading across the U.S., with Michigan experiencing the most significant increase in cases.
- Michigan has reported over 700 cases, up from 572 over the weekend, while Ohio has 177 cases and North Carolina has 110, with other states also affected.
- Cyclosporiasis is contracted by consuming contaminated produce or water, leading to symptoms such as watery diarrhea, cramping, bloating, and fatigue that can last over a month if untreated.
- Although not usually life-threatening, the illness can cause severe dehydration and is treated with sulfa drugs, rest, and plenty of fluids.
- Federal data indicates at least 20 hospitalizations and 145 cases reported to the CDC so far, with public health authorities investigating several clusters across multiple states.
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