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Cyclosporiasis outbreak in Michigan grows to nearly 700 cases
WILX • • general
Key Points:
- Nearly 700 cyclosporiasis cases have been reported across Michigan, quadrupling from about 170 cases in less than a week, with several counties including Monroe, Lenawee, and Wayne affected.
- State health officials suspect contaminated fresh produce as the source of the outbreak but have not yet identified a specific product or brand due to the complexity of food distribution networks.
- Symptoms of the parasitic infection include severe abdominal pain, frequent watery diarrhea, and weight loss, with onset up to two weeks after exposure; treatment typically involves antibiotics.
- Officials advise residents to thoroughly wash fresh produce, remove outer layers of lettuce, and cook foods to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit to kill the parasite.
- The Michigan health department is working to control the outbreak and plans to issue guidelines to healthcare providers as the number of cases continues to rise.
