DETROIT — Michigan added 493 more cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness, on Thursday, according to state health officials, bringing the state's total to more than 7,600, although cases appear to be leveling off.

The new cases, reported by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, mark a 6.9% increase over Wednesday, for a total of 7,664 cases.

Cases have been reported in 70 of Michigan's 82 counties as of Thursday, according to the state health department. The largest numbers are in Wayne County with 1,036 cases, Washtenaw County with 773, Oakland County with 710 and Ingham County with 698.

Health officials, meanwhile, continue to investigate the outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that usually causes frequent, watery and explosive diarrhea. It's the worst outbreak Michigan has ever had of cyclosporiasis.

The infections have been linked to iceberg lettuce in five states, the Centers for Disease Control said. The agency said it's also investigating other outbreaks and illnesses of cyclosporiasis nationally that are unrelated to that outbreak.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson Lynn Sutfin said Monday that her department recommends Michigan residents continue to purchase whole heads of lettuce, instead of pre-washed, bagged lettuce or pre-mixed salad kits, and follow the safety guidance it has provided.

How different age groups are affected

As of Thursday, 30- to 39-year-olds are the age group that has seen the most cases of cyclosporiasis in Michigan – 1,666. The group is followed by the 20- to 29-year-old age group, with 1444 cases, and the 40- to 49-year-old age group, with 1392 cases.

The age groups with the fewest detected cases include those 90 years and older, with 12 cases; children 9 years of age or younger, with 40; and 80- to 89-year-olds, with 139.

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