Michigan reports 12,485 cases since June
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday that residents can “resume routine guidance” for lettuce and salad greens, lifting its recommendation to avoid bagged salad mixes as the state’s cyclosporiasis outbreak slows.
Michigan has been a hotspot in the outbreak, reporting 12,485 cases since June, the department said. Most exposures occurred in late June or early July, and the “majority of the contaminated produce is likely no longer available for consumption,” MDHHS said.
In a statement, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the agency’s chief medical executive, said: “Since the start of this outbreak, MDHHS has remained committed to providing timely, transparent information and clear recommendations to Michigan residents. As new data has emerged, our guidance has evolved to reflect the best available evidence, helping ensure that prevention recommendations are accurate, actionable and responsive to the changing situation.”
Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic infection that can cause sudden, watery diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite and fatigue.
On average, people exposed to cyclosporiasis begin feeling sick about seven days after exposure but can begin observing symptoms up to 14 days after exposure, the department said.
The outbreak first spread in Michigan and Ohio before reaching a total of 15 states.
The source of the outbreak has been traced to lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. The company’s lettuce is sold in grocery stores around the United States and in restaurants including Taco Bell.