Parasite outbreak confirmed in North Texas; The pathogen causes severe diarrhea

 

 

P.P. Cherian

Texas: An outbreak of Cyclosporiasis has been confirmed in Denton, Collin and Tarrant counties in North Texas. The disease is caused by a parasite that causes severe diarrhea. The outbreak was reported in the early summer.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that more than 300 people in 18 states in the United States, including Texas, have been infected with the disease. So far, two cases have been confirmed in Denton County, two in Collin County and less than five in Tarrant County.

A public health advisory has not yet been issued as the source of the disease is unclear. Health officials have stated that there is currently no cause for concern.

These pathogens, which are usually found in tropical regions, are spread through vegetables and fruits in the United States.

The main symptoms of the disease are severe diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain, gas, vomiting, body aches, and mild fever.