A severe parasitic stomach bug has now infected more than 700 people in the US state of Michigan, with dozens hospitalised as health officials scramble to identify the source. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has recorded over 700 cases of cyclosporiasis since June 22, with 36 people requiring hospital treatment. Cases are still rising daily and officials warn the worst may not be over.
Dr Matthew Sims, director of Infectious Diseases Research at Corewell Health, described it as one of the largest outbreaks the state has ever seen.
Dr Sims added: “This is one of the largest we’ve ever had in Michigan.”
Last year the state sent just 36 tests for the parasite — none positive. This year, 15 of 26 tests have already come back positive, with more expected.
The outbreak has hit communities across at least 35 counties. Monroe County has been worst affected with 173 cases, followed by Washtenaw (95) and Lenawee (86).
Wayne County, which includes Detroit, has recorded 58 cases, with six in the city itself.
Health authorities suspect contaminated produce is to blame, but no specific fruit, vegetable, grower or supplier has yet been identified.
Past outbreaks have frequently been linked to bagged lettuce, basil and raspberries.
Detroit’s Health Department medical director Dr Claudia Richardson urged residents to take extra precautions, advising: “I would rinse it thoroughly, immerse in water, vinegar.”
She stressed the illness is not passed person-to-person but comes from contaminated food or water.
Dr Richardson added: “With produce, pay extra attention at this time.”
Symptoms can be brutal, often involving prolonged diarrhoea.
Doctors advise seeing a GP if diarrhoea lasts more than a day, dehydration sets in, or there is fever or blood in the stool. Antibiotics are available to treat the infection.
MDHHS continues to investigate while urging anyone with severe gastrointestinal symptoms to contact their healthcare provider and local health department.
Data was last updated on July 6 and is expected to rise further.