Michigan Cyclosporiasis Cases Climb to 572 as Officials Search for Source
By VIPNews Network
Michigan health officials are investigating a fast-growing cyclosporiasis outbreak that reached 572 reported cases by July 4, with no source yet identified. The outbreak has been concentrated in southeast Michigan and has spread across multiple counties, including Monroe, Lenawee, Washtenaw, Wayne, Shiawassee, Jackson, Oakland and Livingston, according to state health officials.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine and can spread through food or water contaminated with feces. Symptoms can include watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, fatigue, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss and low-grade fever.
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The CDC says 145 U.S.-acquired cases had been reported as of June 16 across 17 states, but it has not linked all of the cases to a single multistate outbreak. Officials say several clusters remain under investigation, and the number of reported illnesses is likely an undercount because not all people seek care or receive testing for the parasite.
Health officials say cyclosporiasis can be missed because it is not typically included in standard stool testing, and a clinician may need to request it specifically. The CDC advises people with prolonged diarrhea, especially after eating fresh produce, to seek medical care.
Residents are urged to wash fruits and vegetables under running water, scrub firm produce with a clean brush, cut away damaged areas and refrigerate cut or prepared produce promptly.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Surveillance of Cyclosporiasis; Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Outbreak of cyclosporiasis occurring in Michigan, accessed July 7, 2026.
