Michigan Says It’s Okay to Eat Salad Again as Outbreak Slows

Okay, so after weeks of talking about Michigan’s massive cyclospora outbreak, we finally have some news that we’re cautiously optimistic about.

Michigan Lifts Warning Against Bagged Salad Mixes

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says the outbreak appears to be slowing down, and the state is now telling people they can go back to eating lettuce and salad greens like normal.

READ MORE: Michigan Confirms Two Deaths From Cyclosporiasis  

That does not mean the whole thing is magically over. But it does mean health officials believe we may finally be on the other side of the worst of it.

Michigan Cyclospora Cases Are Finally Trending Down

ABC 12 reports that Michigan has recorded 12,485 cases since June, with 279 people hospitalized. Two people have died, and both had significant underlying health conditions that were made worse by the illness and dehydration.

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The encouraging part is what’s happening with new cases. Illnesses peaked during the week of July 5, when more than 3,300 people reported symptoms. Since then, that number has dropped dramatically. Diarrhea-related emergency room visits are also going down.

Genesee County Has Reported 598 Cyclospora Cases

Here in Genesee County, there have been 598 reported cases according to MLive, so this has definitely not been some problem happening somewhere else in Michigan.

READ MORE: Durand Couple Sues Taco Bell After Cyclospora Outbreak Takes Unexpected Turn 

The state is also lifting its recommendation to avoid bagged salad mixes. Health officials believe most people were exposed in late June and early July, and most of the contaminated lettuce is probably no longer sitting in somebody’s refrigerator waiting to ruin their weekend. Still, officials say to avoid any recalled lettuce and keep following normal food-safety practices.

Michigan Will Now Release Weekly Cyclospora Updates

And honestly, after everything we've heard about this outbreak, I think "cautiously optimistic" is probably the right attitude. You don't have to look at a bag of lettuce like it’s a ticking time bomb anymore. But maybe don't start licking the salad bowl just yet.

READ MORE: When Do Genesee County Districts Start The 2026-27 School Year 

The state will now provide updates once a week on Thursdays instead of every day, which is another pretty good indication that things are moving in the right direction.