Michigan Reports Significant Drop In Weekly Cyclosporiasis Cases

Michigan health officials reported just 368 new cyclosporiasis cases this week, a significant drop from the 1,400 cases the state added last week.

Michigan's total cyclosporiasis cases reached 14,277 on Thursday, with 335 hopsitalizations and two deaths, which were reported in earlier this month.

The diarrhea-causing parasitic illness has been found in 72 of Michigan's 83 counties, with most in the southeastern portion of the state, according to state data.

Officials believe most of the exposures occurred from late June to early July.

The drop in new cases comes as Michigan health officials lifted their warnings on eating lettuce and other salad mixes that they believed were tied to the outbreak.

Although they now believe the majority of the contaminated produce is likely no longer available for consumption, officials still recommend residents should follow routine lettuce and salad greens guidance, including washing their hands and surfaces often and rinsing produce.

Despite the guidance, health officials still haven't identified a positive source for the outbreak.

The CDC, which has been tracking cyclosporiasis cases since May 1, reported 15,716 new cases this week across 47 states. At least another 11,841 cyclosporiasis cases were still under investigation.

The FDA initially targeted lettuce served at multiple Taco Bell locations across five states, including Michigan. That supplier, Taylor Farms, voluntarily recalled some of its products as Taco Bell quickly stopped selling lettuce at select locations.

The FDA later said there was a mistake during testing and could not definitely label the lettuce as the cause of the outbreak.

On average, health officials said the entire U.S. typically sees about 3,000 cyclosporiasis cases a year.

Cyclosporiasis can only be contracted by consuming contaminated foods or water. It is not spread person to person. Past outbreaks have included a mix of greens and vegetables, such as parsley, broccoli and cilantro.

In addition to watery diarrhea, other symptoms include appetite loss, weight loss, cramping, bloating, flu-like symptoms, vomiting, and body aches, among others. Symptoms vary by person and can emerge up to 14 days after cyclosporiasis is contracted.

Officials ask anyone experiencing any of these symptoms to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Diagnosis requires a stool sample, and treatment is possible with antibiotics.