It’s almost Independence Day, which usually features barbecues, beach trips, and fireworks.
However, this year, it also includes a stomach-wrenching parasitic outbreak that federal health officials cannot explain.
As of mid-June, the CDC has confirmed 145 cases of Cyclospora cayetanensis — a microscopic gut parasite that causes explosive, watery diarrhea, brutal cramping, nausea, fatigue, and weeks of misery — sickening people across 20 states, with 20 hospitalizations and, fortunately, no deaths.
According to the CDC, 145 people ranging in age from 5 to 86 years and from 20 states contracted the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis between May and June 16, with 20 hospitalized.
Fortunately, there have not yet been any deaths.
Since none of the patients had traveled recently, officials believe the cause is food — although they’re unsure of the exact source.
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