LANSING, Mich. – As Michigan continues to experience one of the largest cyclosporiasis outbreaks on record, UM Health-Sparrow is urging residents to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical care if they become ill.
“Cyclosporiasis can cause severe, prolonged illness even in otherwise healthy individuals,” said Ambreen Malik, M.D., Infectious Disease Specialist at UM Health-Sparrow.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important for managing the infection. The infection is treatable with specific antimicrobial medications, but because symptoms can mimic other gastrointestinal conditions, laboratory testing is required to confirm the diagnosis.
“If you experience persistent diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours, you should contact your health care provider,” Malik said. “We have effective treatment available, but we need to identify the infection first.”
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed more than 2,600 cases of cyclosporiasis since late June, with 44 individuals requiring hospitalization. Cases have been identified in at least 40 counties, including Ingham, Eaton and Clinton counties in Mid-Michigan.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which is typically transmitted through consumption of contaminated fresh produce such as berries and lettuce. Unlike many foodborne illnesses, the infection does not spread from person to person.
The most common symptom is watery diarrhea, which can be frequent. Other symptoms include stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite and fatigue. Symptoms typically begin about one week after exposure but can appear anywhere from two days to two weeks or more. Without treatment, symptoms can persist for weeks and may appear to improve before returning.
Health officials have not yet identified a specific contaminated food source driving the outbreak, and the investigation remains active.
“We recommend a good hand hygiene practice,” Malik said. “The safest approach is to cook the vegetables.”
Due to the recent cyclosporiasis outbreak in Michigan, UM Health-Sparrow has increased PCR testing capacity of the infection and is developing a test expected to be covered by insurance plans.
Individuals with weakened immune systems, older adults, young children and pregnant women are at higher risk for severe illness and complications from the infection.
UM Health-Sparrow continues to work with state and local health officials to monitor the outbreak and provide care for affected patients.
To learn more and schedule a doctor’s visit: UofMHealthSparrow.org/find-a-doctor.
