The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a rise in cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness causing severe diarrhea.
Of 190 cases reported between May and mid-June, 145 involved people with no recent international travel history. This points to a domestic source, though the CDC states there is no evidence of a single multistate outbreak linking all cases.
The infections are spread across 17 states, with the highest cluster reported in New York. Twenty people have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, typically contracted from contaminated food or water. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea, appearing about a week after infection.
Health officials are reminding the public to wash hands frequently and ensure food is thoroughly cooked, especially as summer travel and gatherings increase. The standard treatment is antibiotics.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to identify the source of the outbreaks.