NEW YORK: A diarrhea-causing parasite outbreak has sickened nearly 1,000 people in Michigan, making it the largest cyclospora outbreak ever recorded in the state and among the biggest reported in the United States in recent years.
No deaths have been reported. Michigan health authorities alerted the public after more than 170 cases were detected in the southeastern part of the state. In neighbouring Ohio, Lucas County has reported 306 cases, while northwestern Ohio has recorded more than 500 infections.
Source of infection still unknown
Health officials have not yet identified the source of the infections.
“There is clearly a linked outbreak happening right now,” said Natasha Bagdasarian.
Experts believe the actual number of infections is likely much higher because routine food poisoning tests often fail to detect the parasite.
Investigators also face challenges because cyclospora cannot be grown in laboratories, making it difficult to confirm contaminated food sources.
What is cyclospora?
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, which infects the intestines. Outbreaks are most common during the warmer spring and summer months.
The parasite spreads through food or water contaminated with human faeces. Past outbreaks have been linked to contaminated fresh produce, including leafy greens, herbs and fruits exposed to polluted irrigation water.
How can people stay safe?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the infection is usually treated with antibiotics and is rarely life-threatening. Anyone experiencing diarrhoea lasting several days should seek medical advice and discuss the possibility of cyclospora infection with a healthcare provider.
Health officials recommend washing fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them, although washing may not completely remove the parasite.
