‘Explosive diarrhea’ cases hit record number as US experiences nearly four times annual total

The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. ‘Explosive diarrhea’ cases hit record number as US experiences nearly four times annual total Michigan has seen the most infections, reporting 6,571 this week - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments The number of cases of a parasitic illness that causes explosive diarrhea have risen to levels nearly four times that of the average annual total in the U.S., federal data shows. There have been 4,173 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis across 41 states, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Tuesday, and more than 7,400 additional cases reported to the agency have yet to be confirmed. Michigan health officials have reported 6,571 cases, the most in the country. Cases there have been tied to contaminated lettuce and cyclosporiasis spreads from exposure to produce with the cyclospora parasite. In a typical year, there are only around 40-50 cases in Michigan and 1,000 infections across the U.S., according to the American Medical Association. Infections are not life-threatening - but they are particularly unpleasant. Cases often lead to vomiting, body aches, fever, fatigue and gastrointestinal distress that can leave patients dehydrated. “You’re barely able to make it to the toilet,” Alejandro Macías, an epidemiologist and physician at the University of Guanajuato, told The New York Times on Wednesday. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Tuesday that outbreaks were “under control,” despite ballooning case numbers. "We have done extensive forensics, epidemiological forensics and we have identified the source of the outbreak. We, and the companies that are involved, have implemented a recall," he told reporters in a news conference. A voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce from central Mexico was issued by California’s Taylor Farms last week based on an investigation from the Food and Drug Administration. However, the source of outbreaks nationwide remains under investigation, the agency says. This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments