00:00A mystery parasite is sickening Americans in 17 states, and investigators have not found
00:05the source.
00:06The CDC confirmed 145 cases of cyclosporiasis across Florida, Georgia, and 15 other states.
00:15Every single domestic case involves someone who did not travel internationally.
00:19The parasite, Cyclospora chitinensis, is spreading through contaminated American food
00:25or water, and until investigators find the source, every American is at risk.
00:30Here is the danger.
00:32Cyclosporiasis symptoms, severe diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and debilitating fatigue can last for
00:39weeks and are routinely dismissed as a stomach bug.
00:42The only effective treatment is the antibiotic Bactrim, which requires a doctor's prescription
00:48and confirmed diagnosis.
00:49If you are experiencing prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms, especially in Florida or Georgia,
00:56tell your doctor to test specifically for cyclospora.
00:59Do not assume it will pass on its own.
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