Salmonella vs. cyclosporiasis: How to tell what you have

(NEXSTAR) – It’s been a tough summer for the nation’s food supply, with multiple outbreaks of foodborne illnesses, including what appears to be the largest outbreak of the “explosive” diarrhea-causing parasite cyclospora.

As of Wednesday, there have been more than 20,000 suspected cases of cyclosporiasis in the U.S. Two residents of Michigan, the hardest-hit state in the outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce, died after becoming ill. Health officials noted, though, that “both individuals had significant underlying health conditions.”

There are at least three additional outbreaks of cyclospora under investigation in the U.S., according to the Food and Drug Administration. Meanwhile, the agency is also investigating multiple outbreaks of salmonella, with two of the largest linked to recalled eggs and jalapeño peppers that were available at Chipotle and Qdoba restaurants.

The map below shows where cases in the three major outbreaks – both salmonella outbreaks and the cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce – have been confirmed.

While both cyclosporiasis and salmonella can leave you feeling quite unwell, their common sources, symptoms, and treatments can vary.

How are salmonella and cyclosporiasis spread?

The bacteria and parasite responsible for salmonella and cyclosporiasis, respectively, can be........

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