PODCAST:
July 2, 2026 ~ Chris Renwick spoke with Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian about a parasitic infection in Michigan. Over 225 cases have been reported in 21 counties. They are investigating contaminated produce as a possible source.
MICHIGAN ~ The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is still investigating a large and growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a diarrheal and parasitic illness.
As of July 8, 992 cases have been reported in multiple Michigan counties, up from 572 on July 4. This is unusual, as Michigan typically only identifies around 50 cyclosporiasis cases per year. No specific produce grower or supplier, or produce type, has been identified as the source of the outbreak, though previous outbreaks in North America have been linked to bagged salad mixes, fresh basil and cilantro, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions.
“Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been occurring across the United States and now here in Michigan,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Based on the unusual number of cases we have identified in a little over a week, we anticipate additional cases of illness being reported. We recommend Michiganders contact their health care provider if they experience sudden, ongoing diarrhea and reach out to their local health department if additional members of their family are suffering from the same symptoms.”
Cyclosporiasis is commonly spread by food or water contaminated with feces. In recent years, outbreaks have occurred in the U.S. as a result of eating contaminated fresh produce, especially during the summer months. Cyclosporiasis is not known to spread from person to person. Symptoms occur two to 14 days after exposure and may include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, and mild fevers.
Individuals experiencing sudden gastrointestinal illness are encouraged to be evaluated by a health care provider. Symptoms of cyclosporiasis can be significantly improved with antibiotic treatment. If untreated, the illness may last for a few days to a month or longer. Providers are urged to consider cyclosporiasis among patients presenting with acute gastrointestinal illness in southeast Michigan.
To help avoid any illness from cyclospora or other harmful bacteria or organisms, public health officials recommends the following:
- Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
- Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
- Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating.
- Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible.
- Cook when you can, since heating food to 158°F or higher kills Cyclospora.
