What to Know About Cyclospora, the Gut-Churning Parasite Causing Illness in Several States, and How to Avoid It
Officials say the outbreak has spread across several states, and no single produce source has been identified.
- On Saturday, July 4, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 572 cases of cyclosporiasis, up sharply from 170 on Tuesday, June 30. The source of the outbreak remains unidentified.
- Cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite, typically surges in summer when contaminated produce enters the food supply. Previous outbreaks involved cilantro, basil, and raspberries.
- Dr. David Freedman, an infectious disease expert, notes that bleach does not kill the parasite, but heating food to 158°F or higher eliminates it. Thorough washing under running water is also essential.
- Symptoms typically appear two to 14 days after exposure and include frequent watery diarrhea and fever; patients should seek medical care immediately. Staying hydrated with Pedialyte or Gatorade helps manage recovery.
- Cases remain concentrated in Southeast Michigan, where investigations into potential sources continue. Michigan typically identifies about 50 cases annually, and officials note the illness is not known to spread from person to person.
47 Articles
47 Articles
Are you suffering from a nasty stomach infection that just won't go away? It could be cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that causes weeks of diarrhea…
What to know about cyclospora, the gut-churning parasite causing illness in several states, and how to avoid it
Got a nasty stomach bug that won’t go away? It could be cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that causes weeks of debilitating diarrhea, cramps and bloating.
The Metro: What’s making hundreds of Michiganders Sick? Health officials are still looking
A parasite called cyclospora is spreading through Michigan, and health officials still haven’t found the source. In a normal year, the state sees about 50 cases; in the last two weeks, it has counted 700 infections among people aged 8 to 84, according to Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical officer for the state of Michigan. It usually rides in on fresh produce — berries, herbs, leafy greens — but so far, no food has been named. Oakland County…
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