Topline
More than 1,400 cases of a rapidly spreading parasitic illness have been reported in Michigan and Ohio. Public health officials are working to identify the source, which remains unknown.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services notes that U.S. outbreaks have previously been linked to bagged salad mixes, fresh cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas and scallions.
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Key Facts
Michigan has confirmed 1,251 cases of cyclosporiasis as of Thursday, far above the average of roughly 50 cases per year in the state.
Ohio has reported 177 cases to date, with most occurring in June.
Combined hospitalizations in the two states total at least 72, including 44 in Michigan. No deaths have been reported.
Investigators have yet to identify a common food source linked to the outbreak.
Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis, the intestinal illness at the center of the outbreak, is caused by a parasite that contaminates food and water. Symptoms include persistent watery diarrhea, often with frequent or explosive bowel movements, and typically appear about a week after exposure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes the illness is usually not life‑threatening, though it can be severe.
Related Developments
Some Taco Bell locations in Michigan have posted signs stating that they cannot serve certain menu items—such as lettuce, cilantro, onion, pico de gallo, and guacamole—due to a nationwide recall. No recall of Taco Bell products or these ingredients has been issued by the Food and Drug Administration or the Food and Safety Inspection Service in recent months. Taco Bell has been contacted for comment.
Background
The CDC reports at least 17 states have recorded cyclosporiasis cases between early May and mid‑June, though state surveillance data may lag behind real‑time counts. Cyclospora, the parasite responsible for the illness, was one of several pathogens monitored by the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network before it shifted focus to only salmonella and Shiga toxin‑producing E. coli. Public health experts warn that reduced surveillance could impede efforts to detect rising trends in foodborne illness.
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