Michigan health officials are investigating a major cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened more than 700 people and hospitalized 36 others since June 22.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) confirmed Monday that no specific fruit, vegetable, grower, or supplier has been pinpointed yet, though contaminated produce is highly suspected.
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Case counts are changing constantly, with data last updated at 4:30 p. m.
on July 6 showing infections across at least 35 counties.
Heavy concentrations include Monroe County with 173 cases, Washtenaw County with 95 cases, and Lenawee County with 86 cases.
Wayne County reported 58 cases, including six within Detroit city limits.
Unprecedented Scale of Outbreak
Dr. Matthew Sims, director of Infectious Diseases Research at Corewell Health, stated that the scale of the current outbreak is unprecedented for the region.
"This is one of the largest we've ever had in Michigan," said Sims.
The tracking data indicates a massive spike compared to previous years, according to Sims.
"In the previous year, we sent a total of 36 tests for Cyclospora; none of them were positive," he said.
"So far this year, as of yesterday, there were 26, and 15 were positive, so it's a lot more testing and a lot more positives."
Historical data from past outbreaks suggests that certain uncooked food items are typically responsible for spreading the parasite.
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