You got the ‘explosive’ diarrhea parasite. Now what?

(NEXSTAR) – Hundreds of people, and likely more, have fallen ill thanks to a parasite in recent weeks. While authorities continue to search for the source, you may be left fearing any fruit or vegetable you were considering eating. 

Since May, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say there have been at least 145 cases of cyclosporiasis reported in the U.S. However, cases are much, much higher, with Michigan alone reporting more than 1,00 cases as of July 9. 

Cyclosporiasis is caused by Cyclospora cayatenensis, a parasite that is rare in the U.S. It can be spread through food and water that have been contaminated with feces. Those who become ill may have picked up the parasite while traveling to a country where it is commonly found, according to Wisconsin health officials. At least 45 people have, so far, reported becoming ill after eating or drinking water outside of the U.S., CDC data show.

Cases in the U.S. are, instead, more often connected to contaminated fresh produce, like romaine lettuce, basil, cilantro, snow peas, and raspberries. While it’s not clear what has caused the recent cases, the CDC said “there is currently no evidence of a single,........

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