Cyclosporiasis infections are spiking across Michigan, with more than 700 cases identified by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services since June 22, 14 times what the state typically records in a year.
The outbreak, caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, is concentrated in Southeast Michigan, with the most cases in Monroe County. State officials have not yet identified the source of the infections.
Use the map below to find out how many cases have been detected in your county.
Know the symptoms
Symptoms usually begin between two days and two weeks after a person becomes infected.
The most common symptom is watery diarrhea, which can be frequent and, in some cases, explosive. People might also experience stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, weight loss, increased gas and occasionally a low-grade fever or vomiting.
Without treatment, symptoms can linger for weeks or even longer and might seem to improve before returning.
Stay hydrated
Health officials are urging anyone with diarrhea or vomiting to drink plenty of fluids, particularly as high temperatures increase the risk of dehydration.
Signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, dark-colored urine and urinating less often than normal. Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.
When to call your doctor
Anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms should contact a health care provider, especially if symptoms last more than a few days or become severe.
Cyclospora infections can be treated with antibiotics, and prompt treatment can shorten the illness. Because the parasite is not detected by every routine stool test, patients should tell their provider about their symptoms and ask whether testing for cyclospora is appropriate.
Can you spread it to others?
Unlike many stomach illnesses, cyclospora is not commonly spread directly from person to person.
The parasite must mature in the environment before it becomes infectious, making transmission between household members unlikely. Instead, infections are typically linked to contaminated food or water.
How to reduce your risk
While investigators work to identify the source of Michigan's outbreak, public health experts recommend taking routine food safety precautions:
- Wash your hands before preparing or eating food.
- Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating or cooking them.
- Use a clean produce brush on firm fruits and vegetables, such as cucumbers or melons.
- Avoid food or water that might be contaminated when traveling.
Health officials note that washing produce lowers the risk of many foodborne illnesses, although it might not completely eliminate cyclospora if produce has been contaminated before reaching consumers.