The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed there are seven cases of the intestinal infection known as cyclosporiasis in Shiawassee County.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cylcosporiasis is caused by a parasite found in contaminated food and water. Symptoms appear between 2-14 days after exposure and can include diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, nausea and low-grade fever.
The infection is not considered contagious.
In a period of nine days, 170 cases have been confirmed in Michigan. That's almost four times the typical amount recorded per year.
In an MDHHS press release, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan's chief medical executive, said Michiganders should reach out to a healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms.
“Based on the unusual number of cases we have identified in a little over a week, we anticipate additional cases of illness being reported," Bagdasarian said.
Cyclosporasis is easily treated by antibiotics. If left untreated, the infection can last anywhere from a few days to over a month.
The state is currently conducting an investigation into the outbreak. Cases have been reported in 17 counties, including Monroe, Washtenaw, Lenawee, Wayne, Livingston and Jackson counties.
Monroe County has the highest total, with 70 confirmed cases. Lenawee County has 33 cases, and Washtenaw County has 21.
No potential cause for the outbreak has been identified.
Health officials are encouraging people to thoroughly wash produce before consuming it. Produce should also be properly stored after it is cut, peeled or cooked.
