Cyclospora Outbreak Sickens Thousands in US

A record-breaking outbreak of the diarrhea-causing cyclospora parasite has sickened more than 2,800 people across 31 states, with Michigan and Ohio reporting the highest numbers.

State health officials in Michigan identified lettuce and salad greens as a 'potential source' of the intestinal infection, prompting one epidemiologist to warn consumers to stop buying bagged salads.

The outbreak is on track to be the largest in recent U.S. history, with cases still rising as the CDC and local health departments race to trace the contamination.

Experts warned that recent cuts to public health funding could hinder the ability to identify and contain foodborne illness outbreaks in the future.