Explosive Diarrhea Mystery: Cyclospora Outbreak Spreads Across 20 States

CDC reports 145 people across 20 states have been sickened by Cyclospora cayetanensis between May and June, with the highest cases in New York; about 20 hospitalizations and no deaths. Most patients hadn’t traveled recently, suggesting a US-based food source. Cyclospora infection, cyclosporiasis, causes explosive watery diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and fatigue; treatment is antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Officials are investigating possible food sources, including produce previously linked to outbreaks (e.g., cilantro, raspberries, basil, lettuce), and are advising safe food handling while the exact source is identified.