By NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

Health officials in Michigan are reporting multiple cases of the parasitic infection, cyclosporiasis in Southwest Michigan.

Image/CDC

There have been eight lab-confirmed cyclosporiasis cases with illness onset dates since late June. At least 14 other individuals are also being investigated as possible cases associated with this cluster.

Health officials say preliminary information from the investigation suggests an exposure to food products prepared at or distributed by Taste restaurant in South Haven.

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There is no indication that the illnesses are related to poor food handling or preparation at this establishment. Taste restaurant is fully cooperating with the investigation.

“Cyclospora contamination often occurs prior to the food arriving at food distribution centers and restaurants,” said Tim Slawinski, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s (MDARD) Food and Dairy Division director. “This type of contamination is not easily removed by standard produce rinsing.”

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Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. People can become infected by consuming contaminated food or water. Outbreaks in the United States have been linked to contaminated fresh produce.

Illness typically results in watery diarrhea, and can include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea and fatigue. Symptoms generally appear 1-2 weeks after ingestion of the contaminated product. If untreated, symptoms often last for weeks and can return one or more times. Infection is not transmitted directly from person to person and usually is not life-threatening.