A widespread outbreak of Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that causes severe watery diarrhea, has been reported in 31 US states, with thousands of infections confirmed in recent weeks. Michigan has been hit hardest, where over 1,000 cases were identified in just two weeks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 843 confirmed cases were recorded between May 1 and July 9, with more than 1,500 additional suspected cases under review. No deaths have been reported, though 86 people have been hospitalized.

The CDC stated that the infection, known as cyclosporiasis, spreads through contaminated food or water, not from person to person. The exact source of the current outbreak remains unknown, but past incidents have been linked to raw produce such as salad mixes, cilantro, basil, raspberries, peas, and green onions. Most patients had not traveled abroad before falling ill, suggesting a domestic contamination source.

Health authorities in Michigan have advised restaurants and food handlers to wash produce thoroughly, cook leafy vegetables when possible, and discard outer layers of lettuce and green onions to reduce risk. The CDC expects case numbers to rise as new data emerge.