Cyclosporiasis outbreak: Michigan health officials provide more tips on prevention as cases rise

Key Points:

• Cyclosporiasis cases in Southeast Michigan have surged to 572 as of July 4, up from 170 on June 30, with the highest numbers in Monroe, Lenawee, Washtenaw, Wayne, Shiawassee, Jackson, Oakland, and Livingston counties.
• Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite that infects the small intestine, leading to symptoms like watery diarrhea, which can last from days to over a month if untreated; diagnosis is made via stool sample testing.
• Outbreaks in the US have been linked to fresh produce such as bagged salad mixes, fresh cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions, with infection possible more than once.
• The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recommends thoroughly washing or cooking produce to reduce infection risk, advising against prewashed bagged salads and emphasizing washing or cooking leafy greens, herbs, green onions, raspberries, and snow peas.
• People at higher risk, including those with weakened immune systems, infants, young children, and the elderly, should be especially cautious; general food safety advice includes cooking food to 158°F or higher and washing all fresh produce under running water.