Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
Cyclosporiasis Cases Surge in Michigan, Hospitalizations Rise Amid Unidentified Outbreak Cause
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A fast-spreading outbreak of cyclosporiasis has sickened thousands of Americans across at least 31 states, with Michigan reporting more than 2,600 cases — a jump of over 1,000 in a single weekend, according to WPXI. At least 44 people have been hospitalized. Health officials have not yet identified the food source behind the surge.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. It spreads when people eat or drink food or water contaminated with the parasite. It does not spread directly from person to person, according to KIRO 7.
Michigan at the Center of a Rapid Surge
Michigan has become the hardest-hit state in the outbreak. Case counts there jumped by more than 1,000 between Friday and the following update, WSOC-TV reported. That kind of rapid rise suggests a common exposure — possibly at a large event or through a widely distributed food product. But state and federal investigators have not pinpointed a source.
The outbreak spans at least 31 states, making it a nationwide public health concern. The hospitalization count of at least 44 people shows that while many cases are mild, the illness can be serious, according to Action News Jax.
Symptoms Can Last for Weeks Without Treatment
The illness causes watery diarrhea, stomach cramping, bloating, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms usually begin about a week after exposure. Without treatment, they can drag on for weeks or even months, according to WSB-TV.
The good news is that cyclosporiasis is treatable. Doctors typically prescribe a combination antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. People who think they are infected should see a doctor rather than wait it out, Boston 25 News reported.
No Food Source Identified Yet, Investigation Ongoing
Investigators have not named a specific food, restaurant, or product tied to the outbreak. Past Cyclospora outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce like cilantro, basil, raspberries, and salad mixes. The parasite is typically imported on contaminated produce from regions where it is more common, according to WHIO.
Until a source is found, health officials cannot issue a targeted recall or warning. That makes it hard for the public to know what to avoid. Experts say washing produce thoroughly can reduce — but not fully eliminate — the risk, WOKV reported.
What to Do If You Think You Are Sick
Anyone with watery diarrhea lasting more than a few days should contact a doctor, especially if they have eaten a lot of fresh produce recently. Standard stool tests often miss Cyclospora, so patients should ask doctors to test specifically for the parasite, according to WPXI.
People at higher risk — including older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems — should seek care quickly. The illness can become more severe in those groups. Health officials are urging anyone with symptoms to report them so investigators can track the outbreak's spread, WSB-TV noted.
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