A mysterious parasite continuous to threaten the health of people in the United States, as some 269 individuals from eight states have been infected since last month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, they are still investigating where the bug originated and how it has managed to infect hundreds.  

CDC explains that cyclospora, as it is called, is a one-celled parasite that causes symptoms often associated with stomach virus such as diarrhea and stomach cramps. At the onset, the condition may seem like the usual stomach bug; however, the parasite stays longer in the human body causing continuous harm to a person's health.

In a report by ABC News, CDC explains that the parasite is common in tropical regions like Latin America, but not in countries like the US. Cyclospora infections were recorded mostly in Iowa, Nebraska, and Texas. A few other cases were also seen in Wisconsin, Georgia, Connecticut, Illinois, and Kansas.

In the same news report, Dr. Nicole Bouvier, an infectious diseases professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City explains to ABC News that the parasite cannot be transmitted from one person to another because it does not live on human hands.

"Because the illness doesn't spread from person to person, it's possible it came from contaminated food or water. Therefore, if a whole family has Cyclospora, it's because they ate or drank the same thing, not because they infected each other," he said. But he adds that the illness is curable.

Experts add that those with weak immune systems should be extra careful. And once a person suspects that he may have the stomach bug, it's best to see a doctor immediately so they can run specific tests and prescribe the necessary antibiotics.

The CDC is still investigating the connection between those infected with the microscopic pest to try and trace its cause.