Here’s what health experts believe could be linked to ‘explosive diarrhea’ outbreak

(Gray News) - Health experts believe they may have found a source of the cyclosporiasis outbreak as more cases of the “explosive” diarrheal illness are reported.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said it identified lettuce and other salad greens as a potential source of the outbreak.

“Early information has shown lettuce as a common product that regularly comes up during the investigation,” Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the department’s chief medical executive, said.

The department reported that its investigation is still ongoing, and it cannot completely rule out other foods. Nor has a single type of producer, supplier or grower been identified.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of July 9, there have been 843 reported cases across 31 states. Michigan and New York have the most reported cases, followed by Illinois, Kentucky, New Jersey, North Carolina and Texas.

The CDC also reported there are more than 1,500 cases it is still investigating. Eighty-six of the reported cases have required hospitalization. No deaths have been reported.

In order to reduce the risk of cyclosporiasis, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services advise people to:

• Buy whole heads of lettuce instead of the pre-washed, bagged salad
• Remove outer layers of lettuce heads and wash in the inner layers.
• Cook produce when possible
• Peel produce
• Wash all fresh produce

Previous outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been linked to bagged salad mixes, fresh cilantro, fresh basil and raspberries.