LANSING: Health officials in the US state of Michigan say they have identified a potential source behind the recent outbreak of Cyclospora infections, with preliminary findings pointing to lettuce and other salad greens as the most likely cause.
The update was issued by the Michigan Department of Health on Monday as investigations into the multi-state outbreak continue.
Salad Greens Emerge as Primary Suspect
According to the health department, early evidence suggests that lettuce or mixed salad greens are the most likely source of the outbreak.
However, officials stressed that the investigation is still ongoing and that other food items have not been ruled out.
They also clarified that investigators have not identified a specific type of lettuce, grower, farm, distributor, or supplier responsible for the infections.
Authorities said additional laboratory testing and food-tracing efforts are underway to pinpoint the exact source.
Thousands of Cases Reported
The outbreak has affected people across a large part of the United States.
According to the Michigan health department, the number of reported cyclosporiasis cases has reached 2,640.
Meanwhile, other reports have indicated that more than 2,800 infections have been identified across 31 US states.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) previously reported 843 confirmed cases and around 1,500 suspected cases across the same number of states, noting that case counts may continue to rise as investigations progress and additional reports are verified.
Health officials say delays in outbreak investigations and laboratory confirmations often result in case numbers increasing over time.
What Is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis.
People usually become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite.
Symptoms generally appear about one week after infection and may include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Bloating
Without appropriate treatment, symptoms can persist for several weeks or may recur after initially improving.
Raw Produce Often Linked to Outbreaks
According to the CDC, Cyclospora outbreaks have historically been associated with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that are typically eaten raw.
Previous outbreaks have been linked to foods including:
- Lettuce and mixed salad greens
- Raspberries
- Fresh basil
- Snow peas
- Mesclun lettuce
- Cilantro
Because these products are often consumed without cooking, any contamination can increase the risk of infection.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The CDC first identified unusually large clusters of Cyclospora infections in early May and continues to work with state health departments to determine the exact source of the outbreak.
Health officials are encouraging anyone experiencing prolonged diarrhea or other symptoms after eating fresh produce to seek medical advice, as cyclosporiasis can usually be treated effectively with appropriate medication.
Authorities say further updates will be released as investigators gather more evidence and work to identify the specific source responsible for the nationwide outbreak.
