Cyclosporiasis Cases Top 18,200 Nationwide
(ANGOLA) - More than 18,200 cases of cyclosporiasis are now suspected across the United States, including more than 1,000 reported cases in Indiana and more than 10,000 in Michigan.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports more than 6,700 confirmed domestically acquired cases since May 1. More than 11,500 additional cases are awaiting confirmation.
It is now considered the largest known cyclosporiasis outbreak in the United States.
Indiana: 1,092 Cases
Cases reported in the WLKI region include:
- Allen County: 218
- Noble County: 70
- Steuben County: 60
- DeKalb County: 54
- LaGrange County: 11
Michigan: 10,077 Cases
Michigan's total increased by nearly 3,000 cases in one week. Cases have now been reported in 70 of the state's 82 counties.
- Hillsdale County: 52
- Branch County: 10
At least 160 people in Michigan have been hospitalized. No deaths have been linked to the outbreak.
Michigan normally records about 50 confirmed cases during an entire year.
Ohio: More Than 2,600 Cases
Ohio has the second-highest case count in the country.
- Williams County: 11
Suspected Source And Symptoms
Nine states have been linked to an outbreak apparently connected to iceberg lettuce sourced from Mexico. Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania were recently added to that group.
Cyclospora is a parasite commonly associated with contaminated produce. Symptoms can include stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Health officials say the actual number of illnesses is likely higher because not everyone develops symptoms, seeks medical care or is tested.
Michigan health officials say emergency room visits connected to the illness have begun to slow. Consumers are still being advised to avoid pre-washed bagged salad kits and consider purchasing whole heads of lettuce instead.