Michigan health officials warn of ‘large and growing outbreak’ of cyclosporiasis

Key Points:

• Michigan is experiencing a significant cyclosporiasis outbreak, with over 170 confirmed cases across at least seven counties, including Monroe, Lenawee, and Washtenaw, far exceeding the usual annual total of around 50 cases.
• The illness, caused by the Cyclospora parasite typically found in contaminated food or water, leads to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea, and is not spread from person to person.
• Health officials are investigating the source of the outbreak, which is suspected to be linked to contaminated fresh produce, a common cause in recent U.S. outbreaks during summer months.
• Residents are advised to seek medical attention if experiencing persistent diarrhea and to follow food safety practices such as washing hands and produce thoroughly to prevent infection.
• The affected individuals range in age from 8 to 84 years old, with symptoms appearing 2 to 14 days after exposure; untreated illness can last weeks, but antibiotics can significantly reduce symptoms.