Everything You Need To Know About The “Diarrhea Bug” Making People Sick In NJ

• The "Diarrhea Bug" That's Making People Sick Across New Jersey

• The Stomach Bug Going Around New Jersey Right Now

• The Nasty Stomach Bug That's Hitting New Jersey

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It's not fun, and it's something you need to watch out for. It's the latest stomach bug that's hitting New Jersey residents, and it's no fun. This illness has gotten the nickname the "diarrhea bug," and I don't think you need to be a doctor to know that sounds horrible.

What You Need To Know About The 'Diarrhea Bug' that's Spreading In New Jersey

According to a new report that Patch posted, "Health officials still don’t know the source of an outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that can cause relentless watery diarrhea that has sickened about 1,700 people in more than two dozen states, including New Jersey, since mid-May."

What is 'Cyclosporiasis'?

If you've been hearing about cyclosporiasis lately, you might be wondering what it is. Simply put, it's an intestinal illness caused by a tiny parasite called Cyclospora. Most people get it from eating contaminated fresh fruits or vegetables or by drinking contaminated water. It isn't usually spread directly from one person to another.

What are the Symptoms of the 'Diarrhea Bug'?

Common symptoms include:

• diarrhea
• stomach cramps
• nausea
• bloating
• fatigue
• Sometimes a low-grade fever.

While it can make you feel pretty miserable for days or even weeks, the good news is that it can usually be treated with the right medication.

This little parasite, called Cyclospora cayetanensis, can cause some pretty unpleasant stomach problems. It usually spreads through contaminated fresh produce or water, and health experts tend to see more cases as the weather warms. The peak season for cyclosporiasis is typically from May through the end of August.

According to Patch, "People who have diarrhea that hasn’t gone away on its own within a few days should see a health provider and discuss the possibility of cyclospora, officials say. Fresh produce should be thoroughly washed before being eaten. But be aware that cyclospora can really stick to some foods, so washing may not eliminate the risk of infection."

If you have any questions, concerns, or symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.