Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services on Wednesday reported 10,077 cases of cyclosporiasis in the state, with 160 people requiring hospitalization. Health officials said the larger outbreak has spread to 45 states across the United States since May.
State investigators indicated that salad greens have been a common source of infection in Michigan, but they cautioned that work is ongoing and other food vehicles have not been eliminated from consideration.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by ingesting cyclospora, a microscopic parasite. The infection typically produces frequent, watery diarrhea that can persist anywhere from a few days to several months. According to public health guidance, the condition can be treated with common antibiotics.
Public health agencies have linked part of the outbreak to iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms. That lettuce was an ingredient used by Taco Bell. Taylor Farms issued recalls affecting products across 27 states, including bagged lettuce sold at Walmart.
The cluster tied to Taylor Farms in the Midwest has touched nine states, among them Ohio and Illinois. Those state-linked cases form one component of the nationwide problem health officials are tracking.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recorded more than 6,700 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis nationwide and has noted awareness of an additional 11,500 cases that remain unconfirmed. The CDC cautions that its counts often lag behind state tallies because of the time between symptom onset and reporting to the agency.
Federal investigators are examining other outbreaks connected to the parasite. North Carolina has reported more than 700 cases that are likely associated with basil and parsley, according to officials involved in the probe.
Health authorities continue to investigate sources and distribution chains while urging clinicians and the public to be alert for symptoms. The investigation remains active, with agencies working to narrow sources and track additional cases.
Summary
Michigan has reported 10,077 cyclosporiasis cases and 160 hospitalizations amid a multistate outbreak affecting 45 states since May. Salad greens have been identified as a common source in Michigan, and an iceberg lettuce product from Taylor Farms has been linked to infections that affected Taco Bell supply lines and triggered recalls across 27 states. The CDC reports more than 6,700 confirmed U.S. cases and awareness of 11,500 additional unconfirmed cases, while other investigations are examining outbreaks tied to basil and parsley in North Carolina.