The nation is still dealing with an ‘explosive’ diarrhea parasite outbreak that has made its way across 34 states and has caused quite a buzz on the internet.

Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine, causes the gastrointestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis, which is rapidly spreading in the U.S. People can become infected with the parasite after eating contaminated food or water.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in their latest report that there have been 1,645 lab-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in the country since May 1, and there are more than 5,100 cases that require further analysis to confirm the illness as domestically acquired cyclosporiasis. So far, 141 people have been hospitalized, and there have been no deaths reported in this outbreak.

These numbers are substantially higher than last year’s. By this time last year, there were only 259 cases nationally reported. Most of the cases in this current outbreak are in five states: Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia.

In South Carolina, there have been a little less than two dozen cases of cyclosporiasis reported this year, but health officials don’t believe they’re connected to the current outbreak, as it lies within the state’s normal range.

However, lettuce that has been linked to the outbreak has been recalled in 27 states, including SC. Here’s what you should know:

Lettuce connected to parasite outbreak recalled in SC

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initially reported on Friday that iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms De Mexico was being voluntarily recalled from the U.S. market after they were found to be the main culprit in the nation’s parasite outbreak.

Their recalled products were available at Walmart, described as “Iceberg Salad 12-oz or 24-oz” and “Shredded Lettuce 8-oz or 16-oz”. These recalled iceberg products were distributed in SC between June 29th and July 16th.

The FDA announced on Saturday that one of Taylor Farms De Mexico’s products tested positive for the parasite, but then announced the next day that it was a false alarm. They still believe the lettuce is tied to the outbreak and continue to warn the public not to consume any lettuce from Taylor Farms De Mexico.

Symptoms of cyclosporiasis

Cyclosporiasis is generally not life-threatening, but some people can become very ill and require hospitalization.

Most people infected with the parasite develop excessive diarrhea, with frequent bowel movements. Other common symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps/pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea and fatigue, according to the FDA. Vomiting, body aches, headache, and fever may be noted.

These complications may last from a few days to a month or longer. Symptoms may seem to go away and then return one or more times.

Tips for concerned public

While there are no cases of Cyclosporiasis in SC that are currently tied to the nationwide outbreak, it’s recommended by the CDC and SCDPH to follow these tips to ensure this continues:

•Visit a clinician if you have prolonged or watery diarrhea, especially if it lasts more than a few days

•Reduce your risk by thoroughly washing fresh produce under clean running water before eating and by following safe food handling practices. It is important to thoroughly wash produce even if it is labeled as pre-washed

•Wash your hands before and after handling food

•Cooking kills the parasite. Cook your food thoroughly

•If you are traveling to areas where cyclosporiasis is endemic (such as tropical and subtropical regions), it’s important to know that standard chemical disinfection, or sanitization of food or water is unlikely to eliminate the risk of Cyclospora

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