Rise in Cyclosporiasis Cases Linked to Possible Source in Michigan

Thousands across the United States are falling ill due to a growing cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to a possible source in Michigan. The illness, caused by the cyclospora parasite, spreads through food and water tainted with fecal matter.

Potential Source Identified

Michigan health officials released a statement indicating that lettuce or salad greens might be the origin of the outbreak. Although these items are suspected sources, officials advise caution as they have not confirmed the exact source and do not exclude other foods. No specific grower or supplier has been named at this time.

Current results point to lettuce or salad greens as a potential source for this outbreak.

Michigan reported 2,640 cases and 44 hospitalizations, marking a 69% uptick since Friday. This represents a record number of cases in Michigan, which typically sees only 40 to 50 cases annually.

Widespread Impact

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note increased cases in multiple states, including New York, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. The CDC has identified at least 843 confirmed illnesses nationwide across 31 states, with 86 hospitalizations so far. Experts believe these numbers underrepresent the true scope, as the reporting process takes time.

The New York Times independently confirmed at least 4,800 cases this year. Since 2016, the CDC has noted an average of approximately 2,800 cases annually across the U.S.

Largest Outbreak on Record

Epidemiologist Caitlin Rivers from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health expressed concern that this year could surpass previous records for cyclosporiasis in the U.S.