What to Know About Michigan's Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

You may have seen recent headlines about a sudden, unusually large spike in severe stomach illnesses in Michigan. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has reported more than 700 cases of cyclosporiasis since late June 2026—mostly concentrated right here in Southeast Michigan. 

To put that into perspective, Michigan usually averages only about 50 cases in an entire year.

If you or a family member develop prolonged or severe watery diarrhea, stay well-hydrated, visit an IEP Urgent Care location right away, and ask to be tested specifically for Cyclospora.   

Dealing with a sudden outbreak can be alarming, but knowing what you are up against makes it much easier to keep your kitchen safe. Here's a breakdown of what cyclosporiasis is, what products to look out for, and how to protect your family.

What is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by a microscopic, single-celled parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis.  

When people swallow this parasite—usually by eating food or drinking water contaminated with infected human feces—it hitches a ride to the small intestine. It is a seasonal threat, meaning health officials usually see cases spike during the warmer summer months (May through August). 

The Tell-Tale Symptoms

Symptoms usually show up about a week after you ingest the parasite, though they can appear anywhere from two days to two weeks later. The most common sign is frequent, watery, and sometimes "explosive" diarrhea.  

Other common symptoms include:

• Severe stomach cramps and bloating  

• Loss of appetite and weight loss  

• Nausea and fatigue  

• Low-grade fever or body aches  

Crucial Fact: Unlike a typical 24-hour stomach bug, untreated cyclosporiasis can last anywhere from a few days to a month or longer. It can also seem to go away, only to return a few days later in a frustrating cycle of relapses.  

Fortunately, it is not typically passed directly from person to person (like a cold or flu), because the parasite needs days or weeks outside the body before it becomes infectious to someone else. It can be treated successfully with specific antibiotics, so if you are experiencing these symptoms, call your doctor.  

What Products are Causing the Current Spread?

Right now, federal and state health investigators are working hard to pinpoint the exact source of the Michigan outbreak. As of July 2026, no specific grower, supplier, brand, or type of produce has been officially named or recalled yet.  

However, we know exactly where this parasite likes to hide. Because Cyclospora cannot survive on cooked or frozen foods, outbreaks are almost always linked to imported fresh produce that is eaten raw.  

Based on past outbreaks in the U.S., health officials are telling consumers, restaurants, and commercial kitchens to be extra cautious around these specific foods:

• Bagged salad mixes and leafy greens  

• Fresh herbs (especially cilantro and basil)  

• Berries (like raspberries and blackberries)  

• Snow peas  

• Scallions (green onions)  

Action Plan: Steps to Protect Your Family

Because there isn't a specific brand to throw out just yet, the best defense is practicing strict food safety in your home. Routine washing helps, but it is important to know that Cyclospora can be sticky and difficult to wash off completely.  

Here is what you should do right now:

1.Wash hands and surfaces first

Always wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling fresh fruits and vegetables. Ensure your cutting boards, knives, and countertops are sanitized.

2.Wash produce under running water

Thoroughly rinse all fresh produce under clean, cold running water. Do not submerge them in a filled sink. For firm items like melons or cucumbers, scrub the skin with a clean produce brush.

3.Cut away damaged areas

Cut away and discard any bruised or damaged sections of fruits and vegetables, as bacteria and parasites can easily pool and thrive in these areas.

4.Refrigerate immediately

Store all cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator within two hours of preparation to prevent any potential pathogens from multiplying.

When in Doubt, Cook It

Because washing alone might not completely remove the Cyclospora parasite, the most foolproof way to kill it is with heat. While the outbreak is ongoing in Michigan, consider cooking your fresh greens, tossing fresh berries into a baked dessert, or using dried herbs instead of fresh cilantro and basil for your summer dishes.