What Mainers Should Know About the Explosive Diarrhea Parasite Spreading Across the US

Maine parents… add this to the list of things we’re now apparently supposed to worry about now: parasites that use "explosive" as a description word.

There are a couple of parasite situations getting attention right now, and while health officials aren’t telling everyone to panic, they are reminding us to do the important stuff that keeps our families safe.  

Because I am certain that no one wants their summer ruined by something that comes with the words “explosive watery diarrhea.”

Seriously, that phrase alone deserves a warning label.

The big one making headlines is Cyclospora, according to the CDC this is a parasite that has sickened more than approximately 1,000 people across several states.

As per the CDC the symptoms that infects,

"..the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes watery diarrhea with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements."

It can cause intense stomach cramps and, yes, the kind of diarrhea that makes you never want to leave the house. 

Cases have been reported mostly outside Maine, but health officials say everyone should be careful especially when it comes to fresh produce.

The good news?

The prevention steps are simple, just wash your fruits and veggies thoroughly, especially those leafy greens. Then wash your hands, and don’t serve your family questionable produce that looks like it has seen better days.

Maine is also keeping an eye on another parasite called New World screwworm, which according to the USDA, affects warm-blooded animals.

The state has put some restrictions on animal imports from areas with confirmed cases because this parasite can affect livestock and pets.

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Just wash your hands, wash your produce, pay attention to your pets and animals, and maybe appreciate that your biggest summer battle is still probably black flies, not explosive diarrhea.