Washtenaw County continues to see a significant number of cases associated with the ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting communities across Michigan. According to the Washtenaw County Health Department, as of July 16 at 3 p.m., 500 cases have been reported in Washtenaw County, with 25 hospitalizations. Statewide, as of July 20 there have been 6,148 reported cases and 102 hospitalizations.

Investigations by the CDC and FDA have tracked a potential source to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, both sold at retail locations and served at Taco Bell locations in Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia. Taylor Farms are voluntarily recalling all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico, which includes Marketside-brand product available at Walmart. See the full information on all Taylor Farms recalled products.

This investigation is ongoing and more information will provided by the CDC and FDA as it becomes available.

What Is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Symptoms typically develop several days to two weeks after exposure and may include:

• Frequent watery diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach cramps and bloating
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever
• Weight loss

The illness can last for days or even weeks if left untreated.

What To Do If You Have Symptoms

If you are experiencing ongoing diarrhea or other symptoms of cyclosporiasis:

✅ Contact your healthcare provider. Packard Health is here to help. Contact Packard Health for evaluation and treatment recommendations: 734-971-1073

✅ Antibiotic treatment is effective. The recommended treatment is trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim).

✅ Rest and stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids is important to prevent dehydration, especially if symptoms are severe.

Food Safety Recommendations

Because lettuce and salad greens remain a focus of the investigation, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recommends taking extra precautions when purchasing and preparing produce.

Support Local Farms

This outbreak is a reminder of the value of knowing where your food comes from. When possible, consider purchasing produce from local farmers markets and small farms. Local growers often offer greater transparency about growing practices and provide an opportunity to ask questions directly about how produce is grown, harvested, and handled.

Supporting local agriculture also helps strengthen our regional food system and the small businesses that help keep our communities healthy.

Up-To-Date Information

For more information about the outbreak visit the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website for the latest updates:

• Michigan Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Information
• MDHHS Press Release, July 13 (available in multiple languages)

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Residents across Washtenaw County are experiencing dangerous air quality as smoke from ongoing Canadian wildfires continues to affect Michigan. State air quality officials have placed the entire state in the Hazardous air quality category because of high levels of fine particle pollution carried south by wildfire smoke. The air quality may have improved slightly since Thursday, but these dangerous conditions are expected to continue through the weekend. Exposure to smoke can affect anyone, but it can be especially harmful for people with asthma, COPD, heart disease, children, older adults, and pregnant individuals.

What Does “Hazardous” Air Quality Mean?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to show how outdoor air quality may affect your health. A hazardous AQI means the air is unhealthy for everyone and can increase the risk of serious health problems.

Before spending time outside, check the current air quality in your area:

👉 Check the AQI at AirNow: https://www.airnow.gov/

How Wildfire Smoke Can Affect Your Health

Wildfire smoke contains tiny particles that can travel deep into your lungs and enter your bloodstream. Exposure may cause:

• Coughing or a sore throat
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Eye irritation
• Headaches
• Chest discomfort

People with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other chronic health conditions may notice their symptoms get worse.

How to Protect Yourself

• Stay Indoors When Possible
  • Keep windows and doors closed.
  • Use air conditioning if available.
  • Avoid activities that can make indoor air worse, such as smoking, burning candles, or using aerosol sprays.
    

• Improve Indoor Air Quality
  • Use an air purifier if you have one.
  • Use high-efficiency air filters in your HVAC system when possible.
  • Consider building a DIY air cleaner using EPA guidance.
    

• Limit Outdoor Activities
  • Move exercise, sports, and other activities indoors when possible.
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
  • Limit time outside, especially when air quality levels are at their worst.
    

• Take Extra Care of Sensitive Groups
  • Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with heart or lung disease are more likely to experience health effects from wildfire smoke. These groups should take extra precautions and stay in clean indoor air whenever possible.

When to Seek Medical Care

Contact Packard Health or your healthcare provider if smoke exposure is making it harder to manage a chronic condition. Seek immediate medical attention if you have:

• Severe shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Severe or constant coughing
• Dizziness
• Confusion or changes in awareness

These symptoms may be signs of a serious health problem.

Stay Informed

Air quality can change quickly as weather patterns shift and wildfire smoke moves across the region. Packard Health encourages everyone in Washtenaw County to monitor AQI levels regularly and take steps to reduce smoke exposure.

By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can help protect yourself and your family while the smoke affects our community.

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Packard Health is grateful to the Ann Arbor Thrift Shop for its generous support through two grants that will help us address critical community needs and expand access to care for the patients and families we serve.

The Emergency Grant will provide flexible funding to help patients overcome barriers that can prevent them from accessing healthcare services. These funds will support emergency needs such as transportation assistance to and from medical appointments, including bus cards and gas cards, and will allow us to provide necessary medical equipment to patients facing financial challenges. By helping meet these urgent needs, the grant will enable more patients to access and benefit from the healthcare services they need.

We are also honored to receive an Anne M. Hayes Memorial Fund Program Grant to support Healing Brothers United, Packard Health’s program focused on promoting mental health and wellness for Black men and boys. These funds will be used for Healing Brothers United’s school-based mentorship project which provides positive role modeling and meaningful connections, creating supportive spaces where participants can build resilience, develop leadership skills, and strengthen their overall well-being. This funding will help us continue and expand this important work in our community.

At Packard Health, we know that health is influenced by more than medical care alone. Transportation, access to essential resources, mentorship, and mental health support all play vital roles in helping individuals and families thrive. These grants from the Ann Arbor Thrift Shop will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many of our patients and program participants.

We extend our sincere thanks to the Ann Arbor Thrift Shop, its volunteers, donors, and supporters for their commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community. We are proud to partner with organizations that share our vision of creating a healthier, more equitable future for all.

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All Packard Health locations are closed today in observance of Juneteenth, a federal holiday that commemorates a pivotal moment in American history.

June 19, 1865, marks the day when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to deliver the long-overdue news of freedom to more than 250,000 enslaved Black Americans – over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Juneteenth reminds us that freedom was not experienced equally or immediately, and that the path to justice has always required both resilience and perseverance.

Today, Juneteenth is recognized across the United States as a time to reflect on the legacy of slavery, honor the strength of Black communities, and celebrate freedom. It is a day to learn, to listen, and to uplift the stories and contributions of Black Americans that have shaped our nation.

This year, we also celebrate Opal Lee, known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” on her 100th birthday. Ms. Lee’s tireless advocacy played a critical role in the movement to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday, which became official in 2021. Her dedication reminds us that one individual’s determination can create lasting, meaningful change.

We encourage you to take time today to reflect on the significance of Juneteenth and to continue learning about its history and impact.

Learn more about Juneteenth and Opal Lee

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We love seeing our community out and active this summer — and we want to make sure you stay safe while doing it!

Lyme disease cases in Washtenaw County jumped 65% from 2024 to 2025 — that’s a significant increase, and it’s a good reminder for all of us to take a few extra precautions when we’re spending time outdoors. The good news? A little awareness goes a long way. Here are some simple steps to help protect you and your family:

• Dress for it. When you’re hiking, gardening, or just spending time in grassy or wooded areas, wear long sleeves and long pants. Tucking your pants into your socks isn’t the most fashionable look, but it works! 
  
• Use bug spray. Choose an EPA-registered repellent with DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 and apply it to exposed skin and clothing before heading out.
  
• Do a tick check. Make it a habit to check yourself, your kids, and even your pets after any time outside. Pay close attention to spots ticks love to hide — behind the knees, in the hair, under the arms, and around the waist.
  
• Remove ticks quickly. If you find one, don’t panic. Use fine-tipped tweezers to remove it as soon as possible. The quicker it comes off, the lower your risk.
  
• Hop in the shower. A shower within a couple of hours of coming inside can help rinse off any ticks that haven’t attached yet.
  
• Tidy up your yard. Keeping your grass mowed and clea

If you do get a tick bite, keep an eye out for a bull’s-eye rash, fever, fatigue, headache, or muscle aches in the days and weeks that follow. These are common early signs of Lyme disease, and they can show up anywhere from 3 to 30 days after a bite. The great news is that when it’s caught early, Lyme disease responds very well to treatment.

Learn more about tick prevention, Lyme disease symptoms, and treatment at the Washtenaw County Health Department.

If you’re concerned about a bite, schedule an appointment with your provider and get checked out!

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Produce season has arrived, and Packard Health is expanding its food pantry services with the return of our Fresh-a-Sprout Market! Opening this Tuesday morning, June 2, at Packard Health West, the market offers free, fresh produce to anyone in the community.

The Fresh-a-Sprout Market is a seasonal supplement to Packard Health’s existing food pantry, providing an additional resource for fresh fruits and vegetables during the growing season. The market runs weekly on Tuesday mornings and alternates locations between Packard Health West and Packard Health Main, making it accessible to a wide range of community members.

Learn more and see the full schedule of dates and locations!

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We’re excited to share that packardhealth.org has a brand new look — and we think you’re going to love it.

Our redesigned website was built with you in mind. Whether you’re a longtime patient or visiting for the first time, you’ll find it easier than ever to get where you need to go. The site is better organized and more intuitive to navigate, so you can spend less time searching and more time getting the care and support you need.

We’re also proud to announce the site is now fully available in Spanish! Simply select your preferred language at the bottom of any page — español is just a click away.

Here’s some of what’s easier to find:

• MyChart Patient Portal — access your health records, message your care team, and manage appointments, linked at the top of every page
• Our Services — explore the full range of care we provide
• Telehealth — find telehealth options and your provider’s video waiting room from the homepage or Services menu
• Food Pantry — check for current hours, locations, and what to expect when you visit
• About Packard Health — learn who we are, discover our health initiatives, and see how we serve our community
• Ways to Give – explore the many ways you can support Packard Health
• News — stay up to date with the latest announcements and stories

…and more. Take a look around and let us know what you think!

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We are deeply saddened by the loss of Dick Sarns, a dear friend and longtime supporter of Packard Health. Alongside his beloved wife Norma, Dick served as an Honorary Chair and key donor to our Campaign for Expansion, and their dedication to accessible, compassionate care has left a mark on this community that will endure for generations.

A visionary engineer and entrepreneur, Dick dedicated his life to making the world a healthier, better place — giving generously of his time, resources, and heart to the causes and community he loved.

As Dick liked to say: “To be continued.” His legacy at Packard Health will be. Our deepest condolences to Norma, their family, and all who loved him.

https://obits.mlive.com/…/name/richard-sarns-obituary…

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As healthcare access in our community is changing rapidly, the need for what we do has never been greater. From launching the OPEN Warmline for same-day addiction treatment, to serving 5,000+ neighbors through our food pantries, to expanding mental health care for young Black men — Packard Health is meeting this moment head on.

The post The challenges are real, and so is our commitment. appeared first on Packard Health.

UPDATED 4/21/23: Make sure that you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines! Here are the latest guidelines from the CDC:

• Adults and children are 6 years and older are up to date with COVID-19 vaccines if they got a bivalent (updated) COVID-19 vaccine.
• Children 6 months through 5 years of age who received the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine are up to date if:
  • They are 6 months to 4 years of age and got at least 3 COVID-19 vaccine doses, including at least one bivalent (updated) COVID-19 vaccine dose.
  • They are 5 years of age and got at least 1 bivalent (updated) COVID-19 vaccine dose.
• Children 6 months through 5 years of age who got the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine are up to date if they got at least two Moderna COVID-19 vaccine doses, including at least one bivalent (updated) COVID-19 vaccine dose.
• You may be eligible for additional COVID-19 vaccine doses if:
  • You are 65 years of age and older and got your first bivalent (updated) COVID-19 vaccine booster 4 or more months ago.
  • You are moderately or severely immunocompromised and received a bivalent (updated) COVID-19 booster 2 or more months ago.
• If you are unable or choose not to get a recommended bivalent mRNA vaccine, you will be up to date if you got the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine doses approved for your age group.

If you have any questions, please reach out to your provider.

10/21/22: The bivalent COVID-19 booster for ages 5-11 is now available at Packard! We are happy to announce that we are able to administer this new booster starting Monday, 10/24. Schedule your child’s appointment now!

10/13/22: We are excited to share that the FDA and CDC recently authorized the bivalent COVID-19 booster for ages 5-11! The Moderna bivalent is for 6 years and older, and the Pfizer bivalent is for 5 years and older.

This is the same bivalent booster that was already approved for ages 12 and up and targets both delta and omicron variants. This updated vaccine will be an important tool for our kids and our entire community to stay healthy through the fall and winter!

As soon as we receive shipment of the vaccines and final guidance for administration we will begin offering bivalent COVID-19 boosters to patients ages 5-11! Check this page for updates and instructions to schedule your child’s booster.

9/20/22: We now have both the Moderna and Pfizer bivalent COVID-19 boosters available! The Pfizer bivalent booster is approved for 12+, and Moderna for 18+. Not sure if you need a booster? Check out the recommendation from the CDC or speak with your provider. Vaccine appointments are available at our Main clinic location on Carpenter Rd. on Tuesdays, and at our West clinic location on Pauline Blvd. on Fridays. Schedule your appointment now!

9/2/22: The FDA recently authorized a new bivalent COVID-19 booster including combined (delta/omicron–bivalent) Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. This is great news and will be an important tool for our community to stay healthy this coming fall and winter.

At this time however, the individual Moderna and Pfizer vaccines we had are no longer authorized as boosters. Therefore, until we receive the new vaccine, we won’t be allowing patients to self-schedule.  In addition, if you had a scheduled COVID-19 vaccination time, we will be calling to cancel and reschedule you.  We are sorry for this inconvenience. You may call to schedule your primary series and/or vaccinations for children under 12 years of age. Call (734) 971-1073.

6/27/22: COVID-19 vaccines for ages 6 months – 4 years are now available! At this time we are happy to offer the Pfizer vaccine to this age group. You can schedule a vaccine through our online portal, or you can call our call center at (734) 971-1073 to make an appointment. We will be scheduling clinics for this age group in the future – check our website and social media for those dates! If you are interested in the Moderna vaccine instead, please contact the Washtenaw County Health Department.

5/20/22: Boosters for ages 5-11 available soon! We are happy to hear that the ACIP and CDC have now approved Pfizer boosters for 5–11-year-olds. We are awaiting final guidance from the MDHHS and expect to be able to provide them starting sometime next week. Please check this page for updates!

3/2/22: All of our locations have openings to receive 1st, 2nd, 3rd or booster vaccines. Click the text above and select the location you wish to visit. The GREEN DOTS on the calendar represent OPEN APPOINTMENTS.

1/19/22: COVID-19 Testing is no longer available at Packard Health. See COVID-19 updates

1/19/22: COVID-19 Free Home Tests are now available. Please use this link and order yours today: https://special.usps.com/testkits

1/6/22: To schedule a COVID-19 Vaccine See COVID-19 updates

Please note the following changes to recommendations and approval for COVID-19 vaccine boosters. 

• Pfizer boosters for ages 12-17 have now been approved for use 5 months after the primary series. J&J vaccine (2 months) and the Moderna vaccine (6 months), has not changed.
  
• Second dose for immunocompromised kids – moderately or severely immunocompromised 5–11-year-olds receive an additional primary dose of vaccine 28 days after their second shot. At this time, only the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is authorized and recommended for children aged 5-11.
  
• Criteria for immunocompromised (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/immuno.html)

12/10/21: The Pfizer COVID-19 booster has been approved for 16 and 17 yr olds who have at least 6 months since the second shot of Pfizer. Moderna and J&J are still approved for over 18 only, so Pfizer booster only for 16 & 17 year olds. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1208-16-17-booster.html

11/11/21: Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has been approved for children ages 5 to 11. Packard has limited appointment availability for vaccines and are focusing on vaccinating our Packard patients at this time. There are many options in the community for 5-11 year olds to get vaccinated that can be found here (https://www.vaccines.gov/) or here (https://www.washtenaw.org/3269/COVID-19-Vaccination).

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