An increase in cyclosporiasis – a parasitic illness that has gone viral for its symptoms of explosive bowel movements – has stoked fears across the country as cases continue to grow.
New York City, the biggest city in the United States with a population of 8.5 million people, is no different.
Here’s the latest on cyclosporiasis, from the number of cases in NYC to how to protect yourself.
What is cyclosporiasis again?
Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic infection that affects the intestines, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. It’s caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite.
“Cyclospora infects the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes watery diarrhea with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements,” the CDC says on its website.
Cyclosporiasis can last anywhere from days to over a month if untreated, and symptoms could relapse one or more times after a person feels better.
It usually takes about a week to start showing symptoms, the CDC reports, but symptom onset can occur anywhere from two days to two weeks after infection.
How many cases of cyclosporiasis are in New York City?
NYC’s Health Department says as of July 20, 447 cases have been reported since May 1 of this year.
How does cyclosporiasis spread?
The sickness spreads through food or drinking water that is contaminated with feces.
“In the US, outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been linked to various types of fresh produce,” the CDC says.
“People can get infected with Cyclospora more than once.”
How to prevent cyclosporiasis
Some tips from the NYC Health Department to protect yourself during this time include:
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Washing hands with soap before preparing or handling food, and after
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Washing firm fruits and veggies with a produce brush, and cutting off bruised areas
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Wash and sanitize utensils, surfaces, cutting boards and display cases both before and after handling food
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Cooking produce when possible
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The latest on cyclosporiasis in New York City