(Web Desk) - More than 300 cases of an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis have been reported in the U.S. state of Michigan, prompting state health authorities to investigate the outbreak.
According to health officials, the infection is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which affects the small intestine. The illness is diagnosed through a stool test.
Medical experts say common symptoms include watery diarrhea, abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating and a mild fever. Symptoms typically appear about one week after infection but can develop anywhere from two days to more than two weeks after exposure.
Health authorities said the parasite is usually spread through food or water contaminated with human feces. In the United States, most reported cases have been linked to the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Person-to-person transmission is considered uncommon.
Officials have urged the public to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption, practice proper hand hygiene before and after handling food, and avoid potentially contaminated food and water.
People experiencing symptoms have been advised to seek medical attention promptly as the investigation into the source of the outbreak continues.