CDC Investigates Parasite Outbreak Near Oklahoma

Oklahoma hasn't been caught up in a strange parasite outbreak that's spreading across parts of the country... yet. But with confirmed cases now showing up in both Texas and Colorado, health officials are trying to figure out exactly what's causing it before it spreads even further.

Here are the weird details.

The CDC has identified a very curious outbreak of Cyclosporiasis across the United States, but they haven't determined exactly what's causing the outbreak.

People usually catch it through eating contaminated food or beverages, but the cases are so widely spread that they haven't nailed down exactly what's to blame or what people should avoid eating or drinking.

Nearly 150 cases have been confirmed across 17 states. Mostly across the Northeast, stretched across the South, but Texas and Colorado are having outbreaks too. With Alaska included among those with active cases, and the fact that Cyclosporiasis is a parasite usually seen in tropical locations, it's a case that has everyone stumped.

45 of those affected have been outside the US recently, so the leading theory is that this is a foodborne issue being transmitted between people, even though cases are spread across the country.

The CDC is trying to reassure Americans that this type of food poisoning is rarely fatal, but the symptoms can linger for weeks if left untreated.

Symptoms

Cramps
Nausea
Fatigue
Vomiting
Watery Diarrhea
Frequent Explosive Bowel Movements

If you start to show signs, visit your doctor. Without treatment, even if the symptoms go away, they can return like clockwork for weeks. You surely want to keep the fireworks outside this weekend.

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