p>Michigan has reported over 1,000 cyclosporiasis cases, with more than 500 cases in Ohio, according to the Associated Press.
The outbreak is the largest in Michigan’s history and one of the country’s largest in years, with the parasitic infection causing weeks of watery diarrhea.
No deaths have been reported, but the source of the infections has not been identified, with Michigan officials announcing the outbreak last week after identifying over 170 cases since June 22.
Typically, only about 50 cases are identified in Michigan each year, according to the Associated Press, with similar illnesses reported in 28 other states, including neighboring Ohio.
The CDC says a cyclospora infection often causes watery, “explosive” diarrhea that can last for weeks or even months if left untreated, with other symptoms including severe abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and significant weight loss.
Michigan has now reported over 1,200 cases and at least 40 hospitalizations, with Ohio’s northwest counties identifying over 500 cases, including at least 306 in Lucas County.
The CDC, alongside the Food and Drug Administration and state health officials, is investigating several multistate clusters, but has yet to find a cause behind the spread, with past infections linked to consuming contaminated fruits or vegetables, or being exposed to contaminated irrigation water.
Fresh produce should be washed thoroughly before eating, although this may not eliminate the risk of infection, according to the Associated Press, with Michigan officials recommending purchasing salad mixes or whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-washed, bagged lettuce.
The official outbreak season for the parasite runs from May 1 through Aug. 31, a window where warmer temperatures historically coincide with a spike in infections, according to the CDC, which advises anyone experiencing symptoms of cyclosporiasis to contact a healthcare provider for testing and treatment.
Fox News Digital’s Khloe Quill contributed to this report, with Angelica Stabile, a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital, providing additional information.
