Health officials are investigating a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis across southeast Michigan and northwest Ohio, as reported cases continue to rise in multiple counties.
Outbreak Details
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says cases have increased sharply in recent days, prompting ongoing coordination with local health departments to identify the source of the intestinal parasite. According to state health officials, cases have been reported in Monroe, Lenawee, Lucas, and Wood counties, with additional concentrations in several southeast Michigan counties.
Statewide cases climbed to 572 as of Saturday, July 4, up from 170 cases reported just days earlier on June 30, marking a 29% increase in a four-day period. Counties with the highest reported case counts include Lucas and Monroe counties.
Health officials say they are continuing to monitor the outbreak in coordination with local agencies. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said past cyclosporiasis outbreaks have been linked to contaminated fresh produce.
Lucas and Monroe county health departments are working together to trace potential exposure sources, including grocery purchases and restaurant visits in the weeks prior to illness. Health officials say symptoms of cyclosporiasis typically appear between two days and two weeks after exposure and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and chills.
Lucas County epidemiologist Teresa DeTano urged residents to practice safe food handling and hygiene to reduce risk of infection. “Some people have also asked about if I just cook my vegetables really well or my produce or whatever it is that I’m consuming really well, that will kill the parasite — not necessarily,” DeTano said. “This one does not seem to be heat resistant, so to speak. So you have to be very careful.”
Officials recommend thorough washing of produce and stress that cooking may be the safest method for certain items. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has issued guidance for restaurants, commercial kitchens, and consumers handling raw produce.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
