Possible Cause Of Cyclosporiasis Diarrhea Parasite Identified By MI Officials

Health officials in Michigan on Monday announced that lettuce or salad greens may be the source of the sweeping cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened people in 31 states, causing widespread concern in recent weeks.

“While the investigation is ongoing, current results point to lettuce or salad greens as a potential source for this outbreak, although other food items cannot be completely ruled out,” the state’s Department of Health and Human Services said in a news release Monday.

“No specific type of produce, grower or supplier has been identified as the source.”

READ MORE: MI Cyclosporiasis Cases Rise To 2,600 As Outbreak Worsens

Cyclospora is a parasite that infects the intestines and causes watery diarrhea, nausea and stomach cramps, according to the department, which added it is often contracted by ingesting contaminated food or beverages.

By The Numbers

As of Thursday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has received reports of 843 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis since May 1, with more than 1,500 additional cases requiring further analysis to confirm. There were cases in 31 states and 86 hospitalizations were associated with the parasite, the agency said.

"The true number of people sick with cyclosporiasis was likely higher than the number reported," according to the agency. "This is because some people recover without medical care and are not tested for Cyclospora."

Typically, Michigan only records 40-50 cases of cyclosporiasis annually. There had been 2,640 cases reported as of Monday, according to the state department.

"State data may include both probable and confirmed cases, which in turn is likely to reflect a higher case count than the CDC surveillance data because initial case reports have not yet been reported to CDC," according to the federal agency.

Safety Measures

People experiencing frequent, watery diarrhea are encouraged to contact their health care provider and specifically request testing for cyclospora, the state department said. Cyclosporiasis is treated with antibiotics along with rest and drinking fluids to maintain hydration.

“Although we do not have a definite product identified as the source of the outbreak, we want to let Michiganders know what we have learned so far so they can take steps to protect their families,” Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive, said in the news release.

“Early information has shown lettuce as a common product that regularly comes up during the investigation. We will continue to provide updates as we learn more.”

During the outbreak, people can take precautions by buying whole heads of lettuce rather than pre-washed, bagged lettuce or pre-mixed salad kits; discarding outer layers of lettuce heads; washing inner leaves; and cooking greens that can be cooked to at least 158 degrees, according to the state.