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.
Choose Whole Heads of Lettuce
Instead of pre-washed bagged lettuce or pre-mixed salad kits:
- Purchase whole heads of lettuce when possible.
- Discard the outer two to three layers of leaves.
- Thoroughly wash the inner leaves under clean running water.
Cook When Possible
Cooking is the most effective way to kill the parasite.
- Prioritize cooking foods to at least 158°F (70°C).
- Washing alone cannot guarantee removal of Cyclospora.
- The parasite is resistant to routine chemical disinfectants used on 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)