A microscopic intestinal parasite that causes diarrhea is on the rise, according to federal researchers.
Cyclosporiasis occurs in the intestines and is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, according to CDC officials and people can become infected through the consumption of food or water tainted with feces.
The highest number of cases, up to 80, were reported in the state of New York, followed by Texas and Illinois, each reporting 11 to 30.
Connecticut and New Jersey reported one to 10 cases.
"Case counts rise during the spring and summer months," CDC officials said. "The cyclosporiasis season is considered May 1 through August 31."
Public health experts add that the surge is notable because none of the 145 affected people had traveled internationally. Instead, they reported falling ill after eating food within the U.S.
The average age was 42 years old and 61 percent were women.
“Most people with healthy immune systems will eventually recover from cyclosporiasis without treatment,” the CDC said. “If not treated, you may be sick for anywhere from a few days to a month or longer.”
Federal health researchers are continuing to investigate the potential sources of infection.
Other states that have reported cases are Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
“Cyclosporiasis cases may not be limited to these states with known cases,” the CDC said. “The true number of people sick with cyclosporiasis was likely higher than the number reported. This is because some people recover without medical care and are not tested for Cyclospora.”
Twenty people have been hospitalized, according to CDC data and no deaths have occurred as of July 1.
Symptoms may appear to subside, but the CDC warns they may return one or more times in a relapse of the disease.
“People may be at an increased risk for infection when living or traveling in tropical or subtropical regions of the world where cyclosporiasis is endemic,” the CDC said.
In addition to diarrhea, symptoms can include loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, and a low-grade fever.
Federal health officials advise those experiencing prolonged or relapsing diarrhea to see a healthcare provider and specifically request a test for Cyclospora because standard stool tests can miss the parasite.
Consumers should also thoroughly wash all fresh produce under running water.