Cases of cyclosporiasis—a parasitic illness that causes severe, “explosive” diarrhea—have surged in Michigan and across at least 18 states since early May, with health officials still searching for the source of the outbreak. Michigan reported nearly 700 cases as of Monday, compared to just 170 six days earlier. That’s almost 14 times the state’s average annual caseload.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said over 400 cases have been recorded in 18 states as of the agency’s last public update, and the real number of infections is likely higher since many people recover without medical care or testing. Illinois, New York, and Texas are among the hardest-hit states, with Ohio also seeing a spike.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite cyclospora, which is spread through food or water contaminated with human feces. Previous outbreaks in the United States have been linked to fresh produce like lettuce, salad kits, basil, cilantro, and berries. However, as of now, health agencies have not identified a specific food, supplier, or grower as the source of the current outbreak. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services stated, “No specific produce grower/supplier, or specific produce type has been identified as the source of the outbreak.”
Symptoms of cyclosporiasis include watery, sometimes “explosive” diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and, less commonly, vomiting and low-grade fever. Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive, told ABC News, “There is a significant lag time between exposure to contaminated produce or contaminated materials and development of symptoms.” Symptoms usually develop within two to 14 days after ingesting contaminated food or water and can last for days or even over a month if untreated. Some symptoms may go away and return, while others, like fatigue, can linger after gastrointestinal issues resolve.
Health officials urge people to thoroughly wash fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and to cook produce when possible. Those most at risk for complications include infants, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The CDC also recommends contacting a healthcare provider and local health department if you experience sudden, ongoing diarrhea.
The CDC and Food and Drug Administration continue to investigate the outbreak, which often peaks during spring and summer months. With no deaths reported so far, experts believe case numbers may keep rising as awareness grows and more people seek testing and treatment.
During The Breakfast Club on Wednesday (July 8), the topic came up during the Front Page News segment, with Charlamagne questioning Jess Hilarious about her bathroom breaks the day before.
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