Are there long-term consequences to Brainerd diarrhea?
Brainerd diarrhea is a self-limited illness. Symptoms may last a year or more, and typically have a waxing and waning course. Long-term follow-up studies have shown complete resolution in virtually all patients by the end of 3 years. There have been no known cases of sequelae or relapse once the illness has completely resolved. Back to Top How common is Brainerd diarrhea? Seven outbreaks of Brainerd diarrhea have been reported since 1983. Six occurred in the United States, five of which were in rural settings. One outbreak occurred on a South American cruise ship based in the Galapagos Islands. The original Brainerd outbreak, which involved 122 persons, was the largest outbreak. An outbreak in Henderson County, Illinois, involved 72 persons; the Galapagos Islands outbreak involved 58. A survey of gastroenterologists suggested that many patients who are not associated with a recognized outbreak seek treatment for illness compatible with Brainerd diarrhea. Further work needs to be done t
