There are now more than 9,200 cyclosporiasis cases across Michigan, by far the largest number of confirmed cases in the nation, according to state health officials.
Of those reported cases, 160 were hospitalized as of July 23, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
Most of the cases were found in southeastern Michigan, with more than 1,000 confirmed cases in Wayne County alone, according to state health officials.
CDC officials have confirmed more than 12,000 cases across 41 states since May. Of those cases, at least 308 people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.
On average, health officials said the entire U.S. typically sees about 3,000 cyclosporiasis cases a year.
Officials are still trying to find the source of the outbreak. They do believe lettuce and other salad mixes are tied to the outbreak, but have not yet identified an exact source.
The FDA initially targeted lettuce served at multiple Taco Bell locations across five states, including Michigan.
Taylor Farms, a lettuce supplier to some Taco Bell locations, voluntarily recalled some of its products as Taco Bell quickly stopped selling lettuce at select locations.
However, the FDA said there was a mistake during testing and could not definitely label the lettuce as the cause of the outbreak.
Here's what to know about cyclosporiasis and how to stay safe during peak fresh produce season.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which is commonly found in developing countries and spread by food or water contaminated with feces.
It infects the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes frequent, watery and explosive diarrhea.
Symptoms usually begin about a week after someone consumes contaminated food or water, though they can appear as soon as two days or more than two weeks later. Watery diarrhea is the most common symptom.
Cyclosporiasis is not usually life-threatening, but dehydration from frequent bouts of diarrhea can cause severe illness, particularly among younger or older people and those who have weakened immune systems.
The best way to prevent infection with a parasite is to avoid food or water that may have been contaminated.
Officials recommend properly preparing fruits and vegetables by thoroughly washing them before cutting, eating and cooking.
As Michigan officials investigate the potential source, they recommend consumers buy whole heads of lettuce rather than prewashed, bagged lettuce or salad mixes and to remove the outer two to three leaves before washing the remaining leaves under running water.
They added fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), fresh basil, raspberries, snow peas and green onions (scallions) have also been linked to previous cyclosporiasis outbreaks.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Across Michigan Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.