PHILADELPHIA — Michigan health authorities have issued a warning regarding a “large and growing” outbreak of a parasitic infection that is currently spreading across the state.
On Thursday, it was revealed by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) that over 300 cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal infection, have been confirmed. This marks a significant increase from the roughly 50 cases the state usually records annually, according to MDHHS data shared with ABC News.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) point out that the spread of the parasite typically occurs through the consumption of food or water contaminated with fecal matter.
“We are working closely with our state and local partners to identify the source of this outbreak that is making so many people ill as quickly as possible,” stated Lynn Sutfin, the public information officer for MDHHS, during an interview with ABC News.
Meanwhile, outside Michigan, the CDC has reported 145 cases across 17 states as of June 15, with at least 20 individuals having been hospitalized.
Residents in Pennsylvania and New Jersey are among those