Health Officials in Michigan Identify ‘Potential Source’ of Cyclospora Outbreak

Key Points:

• Michigan health officials have identified lettuce or salad greens as a potential source of a cyclosporiasis outbreak, though the exact source remains unconfirmed and other food items are still being considered.
• The state has reported 2,640 cases and 44 hospitalizations, marking a 69% increase since Friday and the highest annual total ever recorded in Michigan, which usually sees only 40 to 50 cases yearly.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports elevated cyclospora cases in multiple states, with at least 843 confirmed illnesses and 86 hospitalizations across 31 states, though actual numbers are likely higher due to reporting delays.
• The New York Times has independently confirmed at least 4,800 cases nationwide this year, significantly exceeding the CDC's average annual count of about 2,800 cases since 2016.
• Experts warn that 2024 is on track to be the worst year on record for cyclosporiasis in the United States, highlighting the growing public health concern.