Additional Coverage:
- This map shows which states are the hotspots of the parasitic diarrhea outbreak (businessinsider.com)
An outbreak of cyclosporiasis is currently affecting multiple states across the U.S., with Michigan reporting the highest number of cases. Cyclosporiasis is an infection caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which leads to symptoms such as watery diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps.
Since May 1, 31 states have reported cases, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirming a total of 843 cases nationwide as of their latest update. However, the CDC notes that actual case numbers are likely higher and continues to collaborate with states to monitor the situation.
The states with the most recorded cases include:
- Michigan: 161 to 300 cases
- New York: 81 to 160 cases
- Texas, North Carolina, New Jersey, Kentucky, Illinois: 31 to 80 cases each
- Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia: 11 to 30 cases each
Several other states have reported between one and 10 cases.
State health departments have provided additional data that sometimes differ from CDC figures. For example, the Ohio Department of Health reported 364 cases and 46 hospitalizations this year, while Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services disclosed 2,640 cases, far exceeding their typical annual total of 40 to 50 cases. As of early July, Michigan has recorded 44 hospitalizations related to the outbreak.
While Michigan currently leads in case numbers, health officials caution that this does not necessarily mean the outbreak originated there.
Investigations by Michigan’s health department suggest that contaminated lettuce or salads may be a possible source of the outbreak, though no specific producer or supplier has been identified. The Cyclospora parasite is known to spread through food and water contaminated with fecal matter and is notoriously difficult to eliminate because it resists standard disinfectants and easily adheres to produce.
To reduce the risk of infection, Michigan health officials recommend the following precautions:
- Cook leafy greens to an internal temperature of at least 158°F (70°C).
- Prefer whole heads of lettuce over pre-washed, bagged, or mixed salads.
- Remove two to three outer layers of lettuce leaves before consuming.
- Thoroughly wash the inner leaves under running water.
Given the complexity of tracing the infection and the parasite’s resilience, these measures are crucial for public safety as health authorities continue their investigations.
Read More About This Story:
- This map shows which states are the hotspots of the parasitic diarrhea outbreak (businessinsider.com)