More than 700 people in Michigan have been infected with cyclosporiasis, a parasitic stomach bug, since June 22. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) reports 36 hospitalizations, with cases still rising daily. Officials warn the outbreak may not yet have peaked.
Largest Outbreak in Recent Memory
Dr Matthew Sims, director of Infectious Diseases Research at Corewell Health, called it one of the largest outbreaks the state has ever seen. Last year, Michigan conducted only 36 tests for the parasite, all negative. This year, 15 of 26 tests have returned positive, with more expected.
Geographic Spread
The outbreak spans at least 35 counties. Monroe County leads with 173 cases, followed by Washtenaw (95), Lenawee (86), and Wayne County (58), which includes Detroit with six cases.
Suspected Source: Contaminated Produce
Health authorities suspect contaminated produce, though no specific fruit, vegetable, grower, or supplier has been identified. Past cyclosporiasis outbreaks have been linked to bagged lettuce, basil, and raspberries.
Precautions and Treatment
Detroit Health Department medical director Dr Claudia Richardson urged residents to thoroughly rinse produce, suggesting immersion in water or vinegar. She emphasized the illness is not transmitted person-to-person but through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include prolonged diarrhea, and doctors advise seeking medical help if diarrhea lasts more than a day, dehydration occurs, or fever or blood appears in stool. Antibiotics are available for treatment.
Ongoing Investigation
MDHHS continues to investigate and urges anyone with severe gastrointestinal symptoms to contact their healthcare provider and local health department. Data was last updated on July 6, and case numbers are expected to rise.
