Explosive Cyclospora outbreak leaves Michigan approaching 1,000 cases

Reported cases of cyclosporiasis are climbing sharply across the country, with the state of Michigan already reaching nearly 1,000 confirmed cases as of July 8. MORE THAN 140 AMERICANS IN OVER A DOZEN STATES SICKENED BY NASTY DIARRHEA-CAUSING PARASITE AS CDC INVESTIGATES Meanwhile, the national baseline sat at just 145 cases between May 1 and June 16, highlighting the explosive speed of the local outbreak. The rather disturbing parasite, Cyclospora, is the culprit behind this intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis. THIS INVASIVE LIZARD SPECIES IS THREATENING THE ECOSYSTEM AS IT SPREADS ACROSS CENTRAL FLORIDA The infection commonly triggers watery diarrhea along with other severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach cramps, pain, bloating, and increased gas. Michigan in particular has been on a rapid rise in cases, specifically Southeast Michigan. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has a dedicated outbreak webpage to track the crisis, with official data showing 992 cases confirmed for the state. EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER ACTIVATED AFTER FLESH-EATING PARASITE BREACHES 2 STATE BORDERS As the cases climb, the critical question still remains: Where is it coming from? While Cyclospora is most common in tropical and subtropical regions, the U.S. faces domestic foodborne outbreaks almost every year, typically driven by imported fresh produce. DEADLY FLESH-EATING PARASITE POSES RISK TO PETS THIS SUMMER: HERE ARE THE SAFETY TIPS TO KNOW Strikingly, none of the initial 145 patients sickened in the multi-state wave reported traveling outside the country. Within the U.S., the CDC has linked previous seasonal outbreaks to imported produce including: Traceback investigations are actively being conducted regarding this year's massive spike. SUMMER PEST PROBLEMS? HERE'S HOW TO SPOT AND GET RID OF COMMON HOUSEHOLD BUGS Additionally, MDHHS is advising restaurants, commercial kitchens, and other entities preparing or serving raw produce in Southeast Michigan to select whole produce over pre-washed bagged mixes. Food handlers should wash all items thoroughly under running water and cook greens, herbs, and berries whenever possible to kill the parasite. HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER The CDC officially considers May 1 through August 31 to be peak cyclosporiasis season, as case counts naturally swell during the spring and summer months.