A parasitic outbreak in the country has prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to warn consumers about symptoms that include “explosive” diarrhea.
According to the CDC, a multi-state outbreak of cyclosporiasis has infected people in multiple states.
RELATED: Say WHAT?! FDA Raises Cheese Recall To Highest Danger Level Following Reported Listeria Discovery (VIDEO)
Experts Warn Consumers That Cyclosporiasis May Cause “Explosive” Diarrhea
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis. Per Google, Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite. It spreads by people consuming food or water contaminated with feces.
The CDC warns consumers that the disease may cause diarrhea and “explosive bowel movements.” Other symptoms may include stomach cramps, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, gas, nausea, fatigue, body aches, headaches, fever, and other flu-like symptoms.
Experts also said that raw fruits and vegetables are particularly susceptible to the parasitic outbreak, per Reuters. Lettuce and raspberries are also reportedly linked to the outbreak, but a specific source hasn’t been identified.
Bagged and pre-cut lettuce is reportedly a potential contaminant in some areas. This, along with hard-to-scrub fruit like fresh berries. Fresh herbs like cilantro and basil are reportedly also among potential contaminants.
The FDA is currently investigating the source of the outbreak. Nonetheless, confirmed cases reportedly span 34 states, with a cluster of 400 cases reportedly in Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, and West Virginia.
According to CDC food disease expert Gwen Biggerstaff, “This is an active and evolving investigation.”
According to News4Jax, the number of cases in Florida nearly doubled in just one week. No deaths have been reported.
Reactions To The Parasitic Outbreak Were Undefeated
Roomies weighed in via TSR‘s Instagram page, and the comments section went into overtime as folks joked about the parasitic outbreak.
User @nerlynjean replied, “Welp! I’ve been wanting to start a fast 😂. 40 days and 40 nights, here I come lol.”
While @bodyby_z wrote, “Bouta say my grace twice and let God sort it out at this point.”
User @ joked, “fr3dddi3 Where is NOah WITH THE ARK!! I’m ready!!.”
Additionally, user @bonitabillionaire added, “ATP just throw the whole world away Jesus we ready 😩.”
@itsquooo joked, “Bruhhh we can’t eat nothing 😭😭.”
While user @samhoward0812 wrote, “gonna have you like the bathroom scene in White Chicks 💀.”
@codenamefiji2.0 asked, “How tf are we supposed to know wtf is infected and what’s not!”
Furthermore, user @pyteee1 added, “I ain’t never seen a parasite in a bag of chips …”
Experts Warn Consumers To Wash and Cook Their Food
The experts say folks should thoroughly wash their hands and any fresh produce under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
Cooking food reportedly kills the parasite, so people should cook it thoroughly. Peeling also lowers the infection risk.
In addition, firm produce should be washed with a produce brush, soap, and water. Bruised and damaged produce should be avoided, and those with weakened immune systems should also avoid raw produce altogether.
Antibiotics reportedly treat the disease, but people who don’t receive treatment may become dehydrated, according to CNN.
RELATED: Whoa! World Health Organization Declares International Emergency Amid Rare Ebola Outbreak (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
