Alaska Reports Five Cases of “Explosive Diarrhea”
Although no cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in Anchorage between July and early August, the state of Alaska has confirmed five cases of this intestinal infection caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, commonly known as “explosive diarrhea.”The situation is very different across the United States as a whole, where the outbreak has reached alarming proportions. More than 20,000 people have been affected in at least fifteen states, and two deaths have been reported in Michigan, which accounts for nearly half of the country’s cases, with 11,234 confirmed infections and around 200 hospitalizations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that cyclosporiasis is “generally” not fatal and that deaths associated with this infection are “rare.” The disease is caused by a microscopic parasite that affects the intestines and is transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water. It is not spread from person to person. The most common symptoms include intermittent watery diarrhea, known as “explosive diarrhea,” intense fatigue or weakness, cramps and abdominal pain, as well as weight loss and a low-grade fever. To reduce the risk of infection, health authorities recommend thoroughly washing all fresh fruits and vegetables at least twice under running water. They also advise taking extra care when washing leafy vegetables, such as lettuce, and keeping raw foods separate from other products while handling them. Although Alaska is among the least affected states, authorities recommend following updates from the Department of Health, especially for those planning to travel or who need information on the outbreak’s progress. They also advise seeking medical attention if symptoms consistent with the illness appear, such as abdominal pain or watery diarrhea, especially if the person has recently traveled outside Alaska and, in particular, to the state of Michigan. The investigation into the outbreak began in mid-July, when health authorities analyzed the possible link between the infections and several products sold by the Taco Bell chain, which decided to recall them as a precautionary measure. Days later, investigators focused on a batch of iceberg lettuce as the possible source of the contamination. The United States has faced similar incidents in the past. In 2018, McDonald’s recalled its salads in 14 states after another outbreak of cyclosporiasis was detected. Years earlier, an outbreak linked to the consumption of contaminated lettuce imported from Mexico resulted in nearly 400 cases. |