Key keywords: Cyclospora outbreak Southeast Michigan, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services cyclospora investigation, cyclosporiasis symptoms 2024, foodborne illness Southeast Michigan, cyclospora infection source tracking, Michigan cyclospora confirmed cases, contaminated produce cyclospora risk On June 12, 2024, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced a formal joint investigation with local health departments in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties into a growing cluster of cyclospora infections across Southeast Michigan. As of the latest public update, 47 lab-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis have been recorded across the three counties, with 3 patients requiring short-term hospitalization for severe dehydration and no reported fatalities to date. Most confirmed patients are between the ages of 18 and 65, with no clear demographic pattern linking cases beyond recent food consumption or activity within the Southeast Michigan region. Cyclospora is a microscopic foodborne parasite that spreads when human or animal feces contaminated with the parasite come into contact with fresh produce, drinking water, or prepared ready-to-eat food. Common symptoms of cyclosporiasis include watery diarrhea, frequent abdominal cramping, bloating, unexplained fatigue, low-grade fever, and occasional nausea or vomiting. Unlike common viral stomach bugs that resolve in 2 to 3 days, cyclospora has an incubation period of 1 to 14 days after exposure, and symptoms can persist for 2 to 4 weeks if left untreated. Immunocompromised individuals, elderly residents, and young children face significantly higher risk of severe complications including chronic digestive issues and extreme dehydration. MDHHS officials noted that their investigative team is currently conducting detailed, one-on-one interviews with all confirmed patients to trace their food consumption and activity history in the 2 weeks prior to the onset of symptoms. Investigators are prioritizing tracking of common food items linked to past cyclospora outbreaks across the U.S., including imported fresh berries, leafy greens, basil, and pre-packaged salad mixes, and are coordinating with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to review regional supply chains for potential cross-contamination events. No specific grocery chain, restaurant, or food product has been identified as a confirmed source as of press time. Health officials are urging all Southeast Michigan residents to take immediate precautions to reduce infection risk: thoroughly wash all fresh produce under running water before consumption, even if the produce is intended to be peeled; separate raw produce from raw meat, poultry, and seafood during food preparation to avoid cross-contamination; and seek medical care immediately if they experience persistent diarrhea lasting more than 3 days, especially if accompanied by signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or dizziness. Residents are also asked to report any suspected cases to their local health department to help accelerate source tracking efforts. MDHHS will issue weekly public updates on the investigation via its official website, and noted that there is no need for residents to avoid entire categories of food unless a formal public advisory is released.