Cases of a parasitic infection are rising quickly in several states as authorities are working to find out what is causing it to spread.
The number of cases of cyclosporiasis rose to 572 in Michigan as of July 4, up from 170 as of June 30.
More than 100 people in other states, including Texas and New York, have also become sickened with cyclosporiasis, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.
Cyclosporiasis is a disease caused by a parasite called Cyclospora that is present in some food and water.
One of the primary symptoms is watery and explosive diarrhea, which can result in dehydration.
The CDC and Food and Drug Administration are investigating several clusters of cases but have not yet identified any sources, the agency said in its latest update on July 1.
Previous outbreaks have been linked to produce such as salad greens and peas.
“Hopefully the source can be identified soon—it is likely fresh produce such as basil, cilantro, leafy greens, salad mixes, or berries,” Dr. Thomas Russo, an expert on infectious diseases and a distinguished professor at the University of Buffalo, told The Epoch Times in an email.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said that the cause of the outbreak of cyclosporiasis in the state is undetermined but that due to the history of outbreaks, it is recommending people and businesses processing raw produce wash it thoroughly.
It is safer to cook produce before serving where possible, the department said.
New York has at least 31 recent cases, according to the CDC, while the New York State Department of Health told The Epoch Times in an email that preliminary data indicate there have been 118 confirmed cases in the state since May 1.
“While cyclosporiasis is not likely to spread directly from one person to another, and is generally not life-threatening as many people with healthy immune systems recover without treatment, the Department encourages all New Yorkers to be aware of the best practices to prevent Cyclospora and other infections common in the summer months,” a spokesperson for the department told The Epoch Times in an email.
Texas has at least 11 recent cases. A spokesperson for the Texas Department of State Health Services told The Epoch Times in an email that the cyclospora season runs from May 1 and Aug. 31 and that it is not unusual to see cases at this time of the year.
In addition to washing produce thoroughly, experts recommend taking steps such as washing hands with soap and water both before and after handling produce, and throwing out damaged or bruised portions of fruits and vegetables.
People who suspect they have become infected should speak with their doctor, who may recommend a laboratory test to confirm the infection.
Symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after infection and can also include abdominal cramping, nausea, and fever.
Treatment typically involves antibiotics.