# US Diarrhea Outbreak Is Expanding Rapidly Cyclosporiasis cases are spreading fast, experts warn. - **Source:** [Science Latest](https://brifing.si/source/ebc20f22-8d1a-4ae4-ba4c-efcd0853ba19) - **Published:** 2026-07-15 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/ea69c52d-9798-48e8-8a07-645a9b362533 ## What Is Cyclosporiasis? Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic infection causing severe gastrointestinal distress. The rapidly spreading outbreak in the US has affected thousands, particularly in Michigan. Experts believe the actual case count is much higher than reported. ## Source of the Outbreak Officials have identified contaminated lettuce as the likely source. However, the cyclospora parasite can also lodge into the crevices of other fruits and vegetables, making it harder to contain the outbreak. ## Ongoing Danger The cyclospora parasite is resistant to common disinfectants used by food manufacturers. Raw produce like lettuce and berries provides an ideal environment for the parasite to thrive. ## Risk of Water Contamination The parasite can spread to water sources through infected individuals' feces, potentially affecting agricultural areas. This could lead to a wider spread of the outbreak. ## Experts' Warnings Public health officials urge thorough cleaning of produce. Restaurants are taking precautions, but more comprehensive measures are needed to control the outbreak. ## Future of the Outbreak Experts predict that cyclosporiasis cases could spread across the entire US. This poses a serious threat to food safety and public health. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.wired.com/story/explosive-diarrhea-outbreak-about-to-get-bigger/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._