The number of cases of the diarrheal parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis in Michigan has surged to 1,251 as of July 9th. This outbreak began with just two cases on June 22nd and has since escalated rapidly.

In the southeastern corner of the state, health officials are working tirelessly to identify the source of contamination, which can spread through both food and water. In 2023, Michigan's case count is already 25 times higher than its usual yearly total, making this year’s outbreak unprecedented.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), the recent spike in cases includes 159 reports received on July 9th. The agency reported 572 cases on July 4th and a staggering 239 cases on Wednesday, July 8th.

While this year’s outbreak is concerning, it is part of a larger trend: the US has seen between 2,000 and 5,000 cyclosporiasis cases annually in recent years. The parasite thrives during summer months and spreads through contaminated produce or water.