Nearly 1,000 people in Michigan have been diagnosed with cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing severe diarrhea, marking the largest outbreak in state history and one of the nation's largest in recent years. The source of the infections remains unidentified, though health officials confirm a linked outbreak is occurring. Michigan first reported 170 cases in late June, with numbers now exceeding 992, including 40 hospitalizations. Neighboring Ohio has reported 306 cases in Lucas County and over 400 in northwest Ohio.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestines, causing watery diarrhea and sometimes explosive bowel movements. The infection is typically spread through contaminated food or water, often linked to fresh produce exposed to polluted irrigation. Past outbreaks have been tied to leafy greens, herbs, and fruits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that cyclosporiasis is rarely life-threatening and is usually treated with antibiotics. Health officials recommend washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, though this may not completely remove the parasite.
Investigations are ongoing in 28 states, with 17 confirming cases from May to June. Michigan's chief medical executive, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, emphasized the challenge in identifying the source due to the parasite's inability to be grown in laboratories. The CDC advises those experiencing prolonged diarrhea to seek medical advice and discuss the possibility of cyclospora infection with their healthcare provider.