Michigan health officials have reported a dramatic increase in the state's ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak, with confirmed cases rising to 3,309. Investigators believe lettuce or other salad greens may be linked to the illnesses, but no specific product or supplier has been identified.
Michigan is experiencing what health officials believe could become the largest cyclosporiasis outbreak in U.S. history, as the number of reported infections continues to rise rapidly across Southeast Michigan and other parts of the state.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) reported 3,309 confirmed cases as of July 14—an increase of 669 cases since the previous update. Forty-four people have been hospitalized, although no deaths have been reported.
What Is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
People usually become infected after consuming fresh produce or water contaminated with human waste. Unlike many foodborne illnesses, the parasite is not typically spread directly from person to person because it requires time in the environment before becoming infectious.
Symptoms commonly include:
- Frequent watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Weight loss
Symptoms often appear about one week after exposure and can persist for several weeks without treatment. Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics to shorten the illness.
Lettuce Under Investigation
While investigators have not identified a specific food product, grower, or supplier, early interviews with patients consistently point toward lettuce and salad greens as possible sources of the outbreak. Other fresh produce has not been ruled out.
Health officials emphasize that consumers should not assume every salad is unsafe, but they recommend paying close attention to future recalls and public health updates as the investigation continues.
Southeast Michigan Remains the Epicenter
The outbreak has affected dozens of Michigan counties, with the highest concentrations reported in:
- Wayne County
- Oakland County
- Washtenaw County
- Monroe County
- Lenawee County
- Livingston County
- Jackson County
- Shiawassee County
Health officials expect additional cases to be reported in the coming days as more laboratory results become available.
A Record Outbreak
Michigan typically records around 50 cases of cyclosporiasis during an entire year.
The current outbreak has already surpassed that number many times over, making it one of the largest foodborne disease investigations the state has faced in recent years. Similar illnesses have also been reported in several other states, including Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia, though Michigan remains the hardest-hit state.
What Residents Should Do
The MDHHS recommends that anyone experiencing persistent watery diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms contact a healthcare provider promptly.
Because routine stool tests do not always detect Cyclospora, patients may need to ask specifically about testing for the parasite.
Officials also encourage residents to:
- Wash hands before preparing food.
- Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
- Follow any future food recalls or public health advisories.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or prolonged.
Investigation Continues
State and federal health officials continue tracing the outbreak through the food supply chain.
At this time, no single product has been confirmed as the source, and investigators caution against drawing conclusions until laboratory and epidemiological work is complete.





















































































































































































































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