Michigan Parasite Outbreak Explodes to More Than 700 Cases

Just last week, we told you about several cases of a parasite-linked illness in Monroe County. Well, this thing didn't waste any time.

In just a matter of days, the number of reported cyclosporiasis cases across Michigan has exploded from 170 to more than 700, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. That's a big number considering Michigan only sees 50 cases a year on average.

Which Michigan Counties Have the Most Cyclosporiasis Cases?

Right now, the highest number of reported cases are in:

• Monroe County
• Lenawee County
• Washtenaw County
• Wayne County
• Shiawassee County
• Jackson County
• Oakland County
• Livingston County

The good news is we still haven't heard of any confirmed cases in Genesee County. But it's probably only a matter of time.

What Foods Have Been Linked to the Cyclospora Outbreak?

According to WXYZ, Health officials still haven't identified the exact source of the outbreak, which is probably the most frustrating part.

However, past Cyclospora outbreaks have been linked to foods like bagged salad mixes, fresh cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions.

If you're eating those foods, don't panic. Just make sure you're washing your produce really well before eating it. Personally, I like using baking soda or white vinegar when cleaning fruits and vegetables, especially if I'm eating them raw.

What Are the Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis?

The illness usually shows up anywhere from two to 12 days after you're exposed.

The symptoms are brutal and include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and sometimes a low-grade fever. It's definitely not something you'd want to deal with during the middle of summer. Or ever, for that matter.

The good news is this parasite isn't known to spread from person to person, so you're not going to catch it from someone who got sick. I'll be honest, though... it kind of makes you want to skip fruits and vegetables until they figure out exactly what's causing this.