An increase in cases of a parasitic illness in Michigan has appeared to make its way to Windsor-Essex.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) has urged residents to show caution when travelling to Michigan, where an unusually high number of cyclosporiasis cases have been reported.
So far, 24 cases have been reported to the health unit in 2026. In a typical year, there is an average of three cases in Windsor-Essex all year.
"While the risk to the general public remains relatively low, the number of cases we are seeing in Windsor-Essex is higher than expected and appears to be associated with travel to Michigan," said Windsor-Essex Medical Officer of Health Dr. Mehdi Aloosh. "Residents planning to travel across the border should be aware of the ongoing outbreak and take extra precautions when consuming fresh produce, particularly lettuce and salad greens."
As of Friday afternoon, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 10,773 cases of cyclosporiasis in the state. 193 patients required hospital treatment.
Cyclosporiasis, also known as "explosive diarrhea", is a parasitic intestinal illness. Symptoms tend to develop about one week after exposure.
They include watery diarrhea, often accompanied by painful stomach cramps or bloating. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, unusual weight loss, nausea, fatigue, or a low-grade fever.
The health unit said that those who travel to Michigan should be cautious when consuming lettuce, berries, or grapes. Fresh vegetables that are peeled and washed thoroughly are safest. Pre-packaged lettuce or salad greens should be avoided.
Consuming cooked vegetables is another tip, as well as washing hands thoroughly before meals, before and after handling food, and after using the washroom.
Complete information about cyclosporiasis may be obtained from your health care provider and on the health unit's official website.
