Cases of an intestinal parasite that causes diarrhea have skyrocketed in Michigan over the past two weeks in an outbreak that still has no clear source.
As of July 6, the state has received reports of more than 700 cases since June 22, along with 36 hospitalizations, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHSS) told Ars Technica on Tuesday.
On June 30, the health department reported 170 caseswhich amounted to 572 the 4th of july.
The microscopic single-celled parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis is behind the cases, causing a disease called cyclosporiasis. Although the infection is usually not life-threatening, it typically causes “watery diarrhea with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These intestinal rashes typically last about a week, but can last two or more weeks, according to the CDC, with dehydration being a major concern.
The parasite is shed through feces and spreads by reaching agricultural products and water. Thoroughly washing and cleaning produce before eating, along with careful hand hygiene, are key prevention methods.
State and national trends.
Previous outbreaks have been linked to bagged salad mixes/kits, cilantro, basil, raspberries, peas and green onions, MDHSS noted.
“At this time, no specific producer, supplier, or type of product has been identified as a source,” an MDHSS spokesperson told Ars. But the state is coordinating a major investigation to identify a source or sources, working with local health departments in the southeastern region of the state, where the most cases have been reported. Officials are interviewing cases, sharing information and ultimately trying to identify common exposures. The spokesperson said MDHSS is also coordinating with the CDC and has shared the state’s case data with the agency.
