Explosive diarrhea parasite spreading across 31 states, CDC warns: how to reduce your risk

Show summary Hide summary

• What public health officials are saying about the spread
• Recognizing the signs: symptoms to watch for
• How this parasite usually spreads
• Everyday steps to lower your risk
• Protecting high-risk people at home
• Testing, medical care, and what doctors may do
• What health agencies are doing to control the outbreak
• Practical tips for safe food choices and travel

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued an alert after a diarrheal parasite was linked to infections across 31 states. Health officials are urging people to watch for sudden, severe diarrhea and to take simple steps now to lower their risk. This report explains how the bug spreads, what symptoms to expect, and practical measures you can use at home and when traveling.

What public health officials are saying about the spread

Federal investigators have reported cases in multiple regions. The CDC is working with state health departments to trace sources. Officials say the pattern fits a food- or water-related transmission route. Investigations remain active as teams interview patients and analyze samples.

Recognizing the signs: symptoms to watch for

• Watery, often explosive diarrhea that can begin suddenly.
• Cramping or severe abdominal pain.
• Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
• Fever in some patients.
• Signs of dehydration: dizziness, dry mouth, dark urine.

How this parasite usually spreads

The infection moves mainly by the fecal-oral route. That means tiny parasite particles leave an infected person and enter someone else through food, drink, or hands. Common ways it spreads:

• Contaminated fresh produce or ready-to-eat food.
• Untreated or improperly treated drinking water.
• Recreational water like pools, lakes, and splash parks.
• Close personal contact where hand hygiene is poor.

Everyday steps to lower your risk

Follow these simple habits to reduce chances of infection.

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food.
• Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water. Scrub firm produce.
• Cook food thoroughly when possible. Heat kills many pathogens.
• Avoid swallowing water in pools, lakes, or while swimming.
• When traveling, drink bottled or treated water if local supplies are uncertain.
• Use filters certified to remove protozoa for home tap water if needed.
• Keep sick children and adults out of group settings until cleared by a clinician.

Protecting high-risk people at home

Some people run a higher risk of severe illness. Extra caution helps protect them.

• Infants and young children.
• Older adults.
• People with weakened immune systems.

For caregivers: wear gloves when changing diapers. Clean contaminated surfaces with a bleach-based solution per public health guidance. Prompt handwashing is essential after any contact with stool.

Testing, medical care, and what doctors may do

If you develop severe or persistent diarrhea, contact your healthcare provider. Tell them about recent travel, food exposures, or if others in your household are sick. A stool test can identify the parasite.

• Doctors may recommend prescription medication for confirmed infections.
• Oral rehydration and fluids matter most to prevent dehydration.
• Severe dehydration may require IV fluids or hospital care.

What health agencies are doing to control the outbreak

Public health teams are tracing food supply chains and testing suspect products. The CDC is issuing updates as new information arrives. Local health departments notify consumers when a specific food or establishment is linked to cases.

Practical tips for safe food choices and travel

• Avoid raw or unwashed produce when sources are unknown.
• Choose cooked options at street vendors in areas with sanitation concerns.
• Carry hand sanitizer, but use it only when soap and water are unavailable.
• Boil questionable water for at least one minute before drinking.