Cyclospora Outbreak Hits Michigan: What You Need to Know
The number of people infected with the intestinal parasite Cyclospora has climbed past 6,100 in Michigan. Health officials first reported the spike on July 20 after a jump from 5,002 earlier in the month. Over one hundred of those cases required hospital care.
Hot Spots
The outbreak is strongest in eight counties:
- Monroe
- Lenawee
- Washtenaw
- Wayne
- Shiawassee
- Jackson
- Oakland
- Livingston
The Centers for Disease Control say the problem is spreading to 34 states and could keep rising until the end of August, when Cyclospora usually fades.
Symptoms to Watch For
Doctors warn that anyone with sudden, persistent diarrhea should call a provider and the local health department. The parasite lives in the small intestine and shows up as:
- Watery diarrhea
- Cramps
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
Symptoms can last from a few days to more than a month if untreated, and the illness may flare up again.
Possible Source
The source is still under investigation, but fresh produce—especially lettuce and salad greens—is a suspect. A previous test on Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce from Mexico turned out to be a “false positive,” so the link is not confirmed. Still, health officials advise caution with leafy greens.
Practical Safety Steps
- Buy whole heads of lettuce instead of pre‑washed bags.
- Discard outer leaves.
- Rinse inner ones under running water.
- Cook greens that can be heated to at least 158 °F (70 °C). This temperature kills the parasite, which resists ordinary washing.
Other foods that have caused Cyclospora outbreaks in North America include:
- Bagged salad mixes
- Fresh cilantro and basil
- Raspberries
- Snow peas
- Green onions
For these items, thorough washing or cooking is recommended, especially for people at higher risk—such as the elderly, young children, infants and those with weakened immune systems.
General Advice
- Wash all fresh produce under clean water, even if you’ll peel it.
- Cook food whenever possible to reach safe temperatures.
Staying alert and following these steps can help protect you and your family from Cyclospora.
