( CNN) The Illinois and Iowa health departments are analyse outbreaks of a parasite that causes intestinal illness and might be linked to McDonald’s salads, both states said Thursday.
Illinois is reporting9 0 occurrences since mid-May. Iowa is reporting1 5 lawsuits since late June.
The cyclospora parasite causes intestinal illness as a result of devouring polluted food or water. Symptoms can begin a week or more after eating the parasite. They include diarrhea and frequent, sometimes explosive bowel movements, according to the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention. Those who are infected might also experience loss of appetite, weight loss, belly cramps or ache, nausea, gas and wearines. Vomiting, headache, fever, body aches and flu-like symptoms can also occur.