US Faces Cyclospora Surge: Michigan Leads Outbreak

An intestinal infection caused by the cyclospora parasite has seen a steady increase across the United States. As of July 13, 31 states have reported cases of this gastrointestinal illness, which causes symptoms like diarrhea and nausea. Michigan has reported a significant number of infections, with 2,640 cases as of Monday.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 843 cases nationwide, with 86 hospitalizations, though case counts are expected to rise due to reporting delays. The current outbreak began on May 1 and is primarily centered in Michigan, with Ohio and New York also showing high numbers.

Health authorities, including the CDC and FDA, are actively working to identify the source of the food contamination. Past outbreaks have been linked to items such as bagged salads, cilantro, raspberries, and snow peas. While the parasite is not commonly transmitted person-to-person, consumers are advised to thoroughly wash produce and cook leafy greens when possible.

For those infected, treatment typically involves a seven-to-10-day course of the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Public health agencies continue to investigate the outbreak's origin to prevent further spread.