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Michigan reports over 10,000 cyclosporiasis cases as outbreak appears to wane

More than 10,700 Michigan residents have been infected with the cyclosporiasis parasite, but hospital visits for diarrhea are declining, suggesting the peak may have passed.

State health officials announced that Michigan has surpassed 10,700 confirmed cyclosporiasis infections, a parasite responsible for explosive diarrhea, and nearly 200 patients have required hospital care. Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the state's chief medical executive, said recent data show a drop in emergency department visits for diarrhea, implying the outbreak may have peaked. The CDC's latest figures place the United States at about 18,000 cases, with Michigan accounting for the highest share.

Early investigations pointed to lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms, which distributes to numerous fast-food outlets, as the likely contaminant, prompting a multi-state recall. The FDA later clarified that an initial test indicating contamination was a false positive but maintained that the Mexican grower supplying the lettuce remains under scrutiny. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as the number of new cases declines.

Why it matters

Understanding the outbreak's trajectory helps public health officials and consumers manage risks from contaminated produce.

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cyclosporiasisexplosive diarrheaoutbreaklettuce contaminationhospitalizationsCDCFDArecallpublic health