Cyclosporiasis is a food-borne intestinal illness caused by the cyclospora parasite.
Cases are being reported across the country, with Michigan experiencing more than any other state.
According to the Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), 2,640 cases have been reported in Michigan, with 44 indicating hospitalizations.
Most of the cases have been located in southeast Michigan, but there are a few showing up in northwest lower Michigan.
For case counts and more information on the outbreak, visit the MDHHS website.
Here are the numbers by county as of July 9:
Antrim — 0
Benzie — 2
Charlevoix — 4
Emmet — 1
Kalkaska — 0
Grand Traverse — 2
Leelanau — 1
The parasite lives on the outside of fruits and vegetables.
Symptoms of the illness include loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, and diarrhea.
No specific distributor or produce type has been identified yet as the source of the outbreak.
MDHHS says lettuce and leafy greens are among the foods that are most likely to be contaminated. Also mentioned as possible sources are cilantro, basil, green onions, raspberries and snow peas.
It is recommended that instead of purchasing chopped prepared salads, people should buy heads of lettuce, wash them in running water, and throw away the outer layers.
The state website also recommends washing fresh herbs, and avoiding raspberries because their bumpy surface makes them especially difficult to clean.
The best way to avoid cyclosporiasis is by cooking all produce products before eating.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.
