Thousands Sick as U.S. Investigates ‘Explosive Diarrhoea’ Outbreak

U.S. health officials are investigating a growing outbreak of a parasite that causes severe, sometimes “explosive”, watery diarrhoea, with thousands of cases reported across the country.

The outbreak involves cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite. Nearly 7,000 cases have been reported in the United States, with Michigan accounting for more than 3,300 infections, making it one of the largest outbreaks of the illness recorded in the country.

Health authorities are working to identify how the parasite spread, with contaminated fresh produce emerging as a possible source. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has linked shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants in several states to the outbreak and advised consumers not to eat the affected product.

The investigation has focused on lettuce supplied to locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Taco Bell has since stopped using lettuce from the supplier identified by investigators.

Cyclospora infections occur when people consume food or water contaminated with the parasite. The illness can cause frequent watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

While the illness can be severe and symptoms may last for weeks, health officials say cyclosporiasis is rarely life-threatening.