Michigan cyclosporiasis outbreak climbs past 14,700 cases
LANSING, Mich. (Michigan Capitol) — Michigan health officials reported 14,718 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis as of Thursday, September 3, an increase of 208 cases from the prior weekly update. The state has been the hardest hit of any U.S. jurisdiction in a multistate outbreak that has now spread across 20 states.
The outbreak has produced 366 hospitalizations in Michigan as of September 3, according to the state health department's latest update. Michigan also reported two deaths tied to the outbreak last month, both in individuals with significant underlying health conditions.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the cyclospora parasite. It can produce diarrhea, nausea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms, and it is contracted by consuming food, typically raw fruits and vegetables, or water contaminated with feces.
Among the largest foodborne events in recent U.S. history
State and federal officials describe the outbreak as one of the largest foodborne illness events in recent U.S. history. The episode has also shaken consumer confidence around fresh produce.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the agency had received reports of 18,445 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis acquired in the United States as of Tuesday. Cases across the country have risen steadily in recent months.
FDA links outbreak to Taco Bell iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms
A Food and Drug Administration investigation has linked the multistate outbreak to iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants and sourced from privately held Taylor Farms operations in central Mexico. Authorities are still searching for other potential sources of the contamination.
Taylor Farms recalled all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico on July 17 and temporarily suspended operations at its processing facility there. A later test result that had suggested contamination was subsequently ruled a false positive.
Public health guidance
Michigan health officials continue to monitor the outbreak and recommend that the public wash fresh produce thoroughly before consumption and remain alert for gastrointestinal symptoms. Individuals who become ill with persistent diarrhea are encouraged to seek medical care and report symptoms to local health departments.
Michigan's State Chief Medical Executive has been coordinating the response alongside federal partners. State officials have said the full source of the contamination may not be identified for some time, and that case counts are expected to continue climbing as more laboratory results are confirmed.
Reporting by Michigan Capitol. Sources include state health department data and Associated Press/Reuters wire reporting.