Michigan Health Officials Identify Lettuce as Outbreak Source
Health officials link lettuce to a surge in cyclosporiasis cases across Michigan.
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A statewide outbreak of a parasitic illness that can cause “explosive” diarrhea may be linked to lettuce or salad greens, health officials say.
Authorities said inquiry into cyclosporiasis outbreak was continuing but early results pointed to salad greens and lettuce What is cyclosporiasis, the parasitic illness causing ‘explosive’ diarrhea? State health officials in Michigan said on Monday they have identified lettuces and salad greens as a “potential source” of the thousands of cases of cyclosporiasis – a parasitic infection that causes “watery diarrhea”, loss of appetite and weight loss. In a statement, the Michigan department of health and human services said the investigation is still continuing, but early results “point to lettuce or salad greens as a potential source for this outbreak”, though officials also cautioned it is too early to rule out other food sources. Continue reading...
The foodborne gastrointestinal illness has shown up in 31 states, and federal health officials say 86 people have been hospitalized.
The illness, which has sickened thousands across much of the United States, is on track to contribute to the largest outbreak in recent history.
Cyclosporiasis cases are rising across the US. Here's everything you need to know about symptoms, spread, treatment, prevention and the latest outbreak.