Michigan health officials have identified lettuce or salad greens as the likely source of a widespread Cyclospora outbreak causing intense diarrhea. The state Department of Health and Human Services announced on July 13th that early information points to lettuce as a common product in their investigation, though other food items have not been ruled out and no specific type of produce, grower, or supplier has been pinpointed.
The outbreak has affected nearly 3,000 people across 31 states, with Michigan reporting the largest share at 2,640 cases and 44 hospitalizations. Ohio has also seen a significant number of cases, with 361 reported since June 1st and at least 46 hospitalizations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that case numbers can lag as symptoms may take up to a week to appear, and 86 people have been hospitalized nationally.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan's chief medical executive, stated that the investigation is ongoing. Cyclosporiasis, the parasitic illness, can cause severe fatigue, body aches, watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea, with dehydration being a serious concern. It can be treated with fluids and antibiotics.
To mitigate risk, Michigan health officials recommend consumers avoid pre-packaged salads and opt for individual heads of lettuce. They advise discarding the outer two to three layers of leaves, thoroughly washing the remaining inner leaves under running water, and cooking greens to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit when possible, as cooking kills the cyclospora parasite. While washing reduces risk, it does not guarantee protection.
