Parasite linked to contaminated produce and swimming swimming pools has sickened a whole lot

(CNN) – Cases of a extreme abdomen sickness attributable to a parasite known as cyclosporiasis are surging throughout the nation, with greater than 30 states reporting infections.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported on Friday at the very least 843 confirmed circumstances and greater than 1,500 attainable circumstances throughout 31 states. At least 86 individuals have been hospitalized.

Symptoms and length

Symptoms of cyclosporiasis embody explosive diarrhea, nausea, belly cramping, bloating and fatigue. Unlike many abdomen bugs that resolve inside 24 to 48 hours, cyclosporiasis can final considerably longer.

“People with this parasite can be sick for weeks or sometimes even months with a sort of relapsing pattern, and so that can really wear down your body,” one epidemiologist on the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security mentioned.

Dr. Amesh Adalja of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Center for Health Security mentioned the parasite invades the gut. “They invade the intestine, causing diarrhea, which can be watery, [and] cause abdominal cramps,” Adalja mentioned.

CNN Health Reporter Jacqueline Howard mentioned the sickness might be tough for these contaminated. “This can be miserable for people if they do get sick,” Howard mentioned.

How the parasite spreads

The outbreak has been linked to contaminated produce. The parasite has additionally been present in swimming swimming pools and splash pads, the place it may well unfold by ingested water.

Health officers warn that the parasite is immune to bleach and may survive in chlorinated swimming pools. Those in areas with an lively outbreak are suggested to keep away from public swimming areas.

How to guard your self

Health officers suggest washing produce totally, notably combined lettuce, contemporary basil, cilantro and raspberries. Cooking vegatables and fruits can even assist cut back threat.

Adalja cautioned that washing alone could not absolutely eradicate the parasite. “It won’t completely eliminate it because these are very hardy organisms,” he mentioned.

Anyone who suspects they’ve the parasite and has been sick for greater than 48 hours is suggested to see a physician for remedy.