Missouri Now Among 15 States Affected By Lettuce Diarrhea Outbreak

With the numbers of cyclosporiasis cases climbing across the country, Missouri is now among the 15 states being affected in the outbreak reporting the third-highest number of illnesses with more than 1000 cases.

The CDC has linked the outbreak to lettuce from central Mexico

Two people in Michigan have died after contracting the intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite.

Among the symptoms of infection which is spread through food or water contaminated with feces is watery or explosive diarrhea, loss of appetite, cramps, nausea, fatigue and possibly a low-grade fever.

The CDC is advising consumers not to eat recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, including Marketside-brand products sold at Walmart, because the lettuce could be contaminated with the parasite.

Consumers should throw away any recalled products or return them to the store where they were purchased.