More than 570 sickened in parasitic illness outbreak in Michigan

More than 570 people have been sickened in a growing outbreak of a parasitic diarrheal illness in Michigan, with cases more than tripling in four days, state health officials said. No source has been identified.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said 572 cases had been reported as of Saturday, up from 170 on Tuesday. The largest increase has been in Southeast Michigan, with cases highest in Monroe, Lenawee, Washtenaw, Wayne, Shiawassee, Jackson, Oakland and Livingston counties.

The illness, known as cyclosporiasis, is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which can spread when people consume contaminated food or water. State officials said no specific produce grower, supplier or type of produce has been identified as the source of the outbreak.

Cyclosporiasis infects the small intestine and usually causes frequent watery diarrhea. Symptoms can also include loss of appetite, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, weight loss and fatigue.

The time between exposure and illness is usually about one week, but it can range from two days to two weeks or longer, officials said. If untreated, the illness can last from several days to more than a month, and symptoms may go away and then return.

The illness is not usually life-threatening, but repeated diarrhea can cause dehydration and severe illness, especially among young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Previous Cyclospora outbreaks in the United States and Canada have been linked to bagged salad mixes and kits, fresh cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas and green onions, according to state health officials.

Cyclosporiasis is treated with antibiotics, along with rest and fluids to prevent dehydration.