July 2026
Welcome to the July issue of the Public Health Macomb newsletter – from the Macomb County Health Department. We hope you are enjoying the summer season and all the activities that come with it. While summer offers many opportunities to get outdoors and stay active, it can also bring challenges such as extreme heat, insects, and foodborne illness. This month's newsletter includes helpful information and resources to keep you and your family informed and safe all summer long.
Important Things to Know
Cyclosporiasis outbreak in Michigan
As cyclosporiasis cases continue to rise in the state of Michigan, with the largest increase occurring in Southeast Michigan, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is providing recommendations to help prevent foodborne illness related to fresh produce. For the latest updates on cases in Michigan, visit MDHHS’ Infectious Disease Outbreaks web page.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite. People can become infected by consuming food or water that contains the parasite. It is not normally spread person-to-person. Cyclospora infects the small intestine (bowel) and usually causes frequent, watery, and explosive diarrhea. The time between being exposed and becoming sick is usually about one week but can range from two days to two weeks or more. Untreated, the illness may last from a few days to more than a month. Symptoms may go away and then return. To learn more about cyclosporiasis and prevention, visit the CDC’s Cyclosporiasis online resource page.
Cyclosporiasis is not usually life-threatening, but dehydration from frequent bouts of diarrhea can cause severe illness, particularly among younger or older people and those who have weakened immune systems.
Recommendations
To help reduce your risk of contracting cyclosporiasis, recommendations from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services include:
- Lettuce/leafy greens: Buy whole heads of lettuce (rather than prewashed, bagged lettuce or salad mixes), throw away the outer 2–3 layers of leaves and wash the inner leaves under running water. For leafy greens that can be cooked, cooking is the safest option.
- Cilantro, basil: Wash thoroughly under running water, separating the leaves. Safest when cooked.
- Green onions: Trim the root end and remove the outer layer, wash thoroughly under running water. Safest when cooked.
- Raspberries: Their bumpy surface makes them especially hard to clean; the parasite can hide in the tiny crevices. Safest when cooked (pies, jams etc.). Consider frozen raspberries as an alternative (freezing may reduce but does not guarantee elimination of the parasite).
- Snow peas: Wash under running water and rub the surface. Safest when cooked.
General Rules to Reduce Your Risk
- Cook when you can. Heating food to 158°F (70°C) or higher kills Cyclospora.
- Wash all fresh produce under clean running water, even if you plan to peel it.
If you do become ill
People experiencing gastrointestinal illness, such as sudden and ongoing diarrhea, are encouraged to contact their health care provider. Cyclosporiasis is treated with antibiotics along with rest and drinking plenty of fluids to maintain hydration.
Cooling centers in Macomb County
Summer in Macomb County brings sunshine, beach days, festivals, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. But when temperatures climb too high, it’s important to know where to go to stay safe and cool.
Residents seeking relief from the heat can access this list of cooling centers throughout Macomb County. The cooling centers are public facilities where people may go for relief during temporary periods of extreme heat. Facilities provide water and restrooms. Please call ahead before visiting to confirm hours and availability.
More ways to stay safe during extreme heat
High temperatures can be dangerous, especially for older adults, young children, and people with medical conditions. Follow these simple tips to stay safe this summer:
Stay cool, hydrated & connected
Protect yourself, family members and others during extreme heat:
- Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly and limit sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks.
- Stay cool: Spend time in air-conditioned spaces like libraries, malls, or cooling centers. Fans alone may not prevent heat illness when temperatures exceed 90°F.
- Stay connected: Check on older adults, children, and neighbors twice daily. Never leave children or pets in parked cars.
Know the signs of heat illness
- Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, cramps, dizziness, headache, nausea, or fatigue. Move to a cool place, drink fluids, and use cool cloths. Seek medical care if symptoms persist.
- Heat stroke (Emergency): Body temperature above 104°F, confusion, hot/dry skin, severe headache, or unconsciousness. Call 911 immediately and begin cooling the person right away.
Be aware of West Nile virus this summer
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is a disease that spreads from the bite of an infected mosquito. West Nile virus can affect anyone, but people over the age of 60 and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing serious symptoms.
Not every mosquito carries the disease, but cases increase in the summer and fall.
Symptoms appear 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
People should contact their doctor if they experience severe symptoms of:
- Headache
- Joint pains
- Body aches
- Swollen lymph glands
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
Many people that get the virus do not develop any symptoms. Most people recover fully, but weakness and fatigue could last for months. Typically, only a small portion of people infected with the virus have severe symptoms.
Ways to prevent mosquito bites
Use insect repellents outside, wear long sleeves and pants from dusk until dawn, and make sure windows and doors have screens. Make sure to get rid of mosquito habitats by keeping pool water treated, getting rid of standing water in containers, and changing the water in bird baths or potted plant trays.
Reporting and local information
Birds can be hosts for West Nile virus. Dead birds can be a sign that West Nile virus is infecting mosquitoes and birds in the community. If there are dead birds or birds that are sick in the community, report it to the Department of Natural Resources.
For more information, visit the Macomb County Environmental Health services page or Michigan Emerging Diseases. Seek medical attention if symptoms become severe after a mosquito bite.
Summer food safety
Summer is a great time to enjoy picnics, cookouts, and meals with family and friends. Here are a few simple food safety tips to keep everyone healthy and make outdoor gatherings more enjoyable.
Start with clean hands and surfaces
Before preparing food, hands should be washed with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Fruits and vegetables should be rinsed under running water before eating or cooking, and raw meat, poultry, and seafood should be kept separate from foods that are ready to eat. Using separate plates and cutting boards can help prevent germs from spreading.
Cook food safely
Food should be cooked to the proper temperature to kill harmful germs. A food thermometer is the best way to make sure food is fully cooked and safe to eat. To prevent the spread of germs, use clean utensils and serving dishes for cooked foods, and never place cooked food back on a plate that previously held raw meat.
Keep food at safe temperatures
Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot, and do not leave foods such as meat, dairy products, pasta salads, or potato salads out for more than two hours, or one hour when temperatures are 90°F or higher. After eating, refrigerate leftovers or place them in a cooler with ice as soon as possible. Simple food safety steps can help Macomb County residents enjoy a fun and healthy summer season.
Food Safety Tip: When in doubt, throw it out!
Questions about food safety? Contact the Environmental Health Services Division at 586-469-5236 or environmental.health@macombgov.org. Visit Macomb County Health Department’s food safety program page for additional information.
STI services at Macomb County
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) clinics provide testing, treatment, education, and support for people who may have an STI. Many STIs can be treated, and early testing can help protect your health and the health of others.
The Macomb County Health Department makes STI testing easy. Services are available at no cost for individuals ages 12 and older.
Services include:
- Sexual health assessments
- STI and HIV testing and screening
- Safer sex education
- Free safer sex supplies
- HIV counseling and testing
- Partner notification services
- Community support and referral resources
Taking care of your sexual health is an important part of staying healthy. If you have questions or would like more information, visit the Macomb County Health Department's STI/HIV information and resource page.
Protect your health on World Hepatitis Day
World Hepatitis Day is observed each year on July 28th. It is a reminder to learn about hepatitis and how to prevent it. Hepatitis is a disease that affects the liver. Vaccines can help protect against hepatitis A and hepatitis B.
The Macomb County Health Department offers routine vaccinations for children, teens, and adults, including hepatitis vaccines. The Immunization Program serves residents at three clinic locations in Clinton Township, Warren, and St. Clair Shores. Clinic days and hours vary by location, so residents are encouraged to check the clinic schedule before visiting. Appointments can be scheduled online, and some vaccines are available by walk-in. The department also participates in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, which provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children.
World Hepatitis Day is a great time to make sure you and your family are up to date on recommended vaccines.
For more information, clinic hours, or to schedule an appointment, visit Macomb County Immunization Clinics or call 586-469-5372.
Home visiting nurse program comparisons
Support for growing families: free home visiting programs
The Macomb County Health Department offers free home visiting programs designed to support pregnant people, infants, and families with young children. These programs include: Maternal Infant Health Program, Nurse-Family Partnership and Public Health Nursing Services. Through these programs, eligible participants are matched with a nurse who provides personalized education, support, and guidance tailored to each family's needs.
Maternal Infant Health Program
A free program for individuals who are pregnant or have an infant under 12 months of age and are Medicaid-eligible or have active Medicaid insurance. Participants receive a series of home visits, including at least one postpartum visit. During visits, nurses and social workers provide education on pregnancy, labor and delivery, breastfeeding, nutrition, infant care, parenting, and safe sleep practices. Families receive stress and depression screenings, including support and referrals for postpartum depression when needed. The program also provides preeclampsia education, maternal warning sign education, and a free electronic blood pressure monitor.
Nurse-Family Partnership
A free home visiting program for income-eligible first-time parents that begins before 28 weeks of pregnancy and continues until the child's second birthday. Participants are paired with a specially educated registered nurse who will provide client-based education, health screenings, resources and support throughout their journey.
Public Health Nursing Services
This program includes home visiting support for pregnant individuals and families with young children, early on services and case management for children with elevated lead levels.
To be eligible for these programs, you must be a Macomb County resident.
Families interested in learning more about program eligibility and enrollment are encouraged to contact the Macomb County Health Department at 586-465-8429 or homevisiting@macombgov.org.
Partner spotlight: Macomb Community Action (MCA)
For more than 60 years, Macomb Community Action has been dedicated to helping Macomb County residents achieve stability and improve their quality of life. Through a variety of programs and services, the organization provides critical support for individuals and families facing financial hardship, including housing and utility assistance, resources, early childhood education, transportation services, and financial empowerment programs.
Beyond providing essential services, Macomb Community Action serves as a strong advocate for residents throughout the county. By working closely with community partners, local leaders, and service organizations, they help identify community needs, connect residents to resources, and promote solutions that create lasting positive change.
Their continued commitment to advocacy, support, and empowerment makes a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands of Macomb County residents each year. We are proud to recognize Macomb Community Action for their ongoing efforts to strengthen our community and help residents build brighter futures.
For more information, please visit Macomb Community Action to learn more about their services and programs.
Stay current. Get connected.
Have you ever visited the Commonwealth events and resources website? Commonwealth provides information on upcoming events, workshops, and educational opportunities that are sponsored by local agencies, organizations, and municipalities in Macomb County and southeast Michigan. Many of the activities posted on Commonwealth are free.
In the News
- A link between e-cigarettes and oral cancer
- What’s going around in Metro Detroit: Heat exhaustion, skin rashes, bug bites, gastrointestinal illnesses
About the Macomb County Health Department
The Macomb County Health Department provides a wide range of programs and services through five major divisions: The Environmental Health Services/Emergency Preparedness Division, which includes restaurant inspection, community health and safety, shelter, waste, water quality management, and emergency preparedness; the Family Health Services Division, which includes immunization, family planning, and other family and maternal/child health programs; the Community Health Planning and Promotion which includes health education, nutrition, and community-based chronic disease prevention, hearing and vision screening, Children's Special Health Care Services and WIC, and our Disease Control Division which is responsible for disease surveillance and control programs; and the Medical Examiner's Office.
