July 2026 Newsletter
Letter from the Health Officer
Dear Community Member,
There has been quite a run of interesting illness outbreaks across the globe over the past few months. Hantavirus in May, Ebola in June, and now July’s public health word of the month: cyclosporiasis.
You’ve probably seen the stories about this illness, caused by the cyclospora parasite, primarily affecting people in southeast Michigan with diarrhea and related symptoms. As you may recall, my position on hantavirus and Ebola is that they are terrible but unlikely to create a public health impact for us in Kent County. Foodborne illnesses like cyclosporiasis are much more likely to touch people here at home for a variety of reasons. The cyclospora parasite is usually spread when fruits or vegetables are contaminated with the organism. However, it can be challenging to track down the responsible food item because our food supply system is very complicated. Local, state, and federal officials are currently working to investigate cases, find root causes, and stop further spread.
You will find additional information about cyclosporiasis and how to protect yourself in this newsletter. While some local cases of the diarrheal disease seem likely, I am absolutely certain that we will see plenty of other types of foodborne illness this summer regardless. July happens to be one of our busiest months for foodborne illness investigations. The combination of warm weather, large gatherings, lots of food, improper food handling, insects, and more makes summertime conditions ideal for Campylobacter, E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and many others.
Let’s all remember to wash our hands, avoid cross-contamination, keep cold foods cold, and hot foods hot. Doing so will help us all stay well and enjoy the greatness of our Michigan summer!
Adam London, PhD, RS, DAAS
Administrative Health Officer
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Cyclosporiasis Cases on the Rise in Michigan
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is investigating a significant increase in cases of cyclosporiasis, a diarrheal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. So far this year, Michigan has reported a much higher number of cases than the 50 seen in a typical year. The outbreak is under investigation, and the source has not yet been identified.
While most reported cases have occurred to the south and east of Kent County, there is still a risk of illness here and throughout the state.
What is cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite that is usually spread by eating contaminated fresh produce or drinking contaminated water. Unlike many other gastrointestinal illnesses, Cyclospora does not usually spread directly from person to person.
Symptoms usually develop 2-14 days after exposure and may include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach cramps or bloating
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
Without treatment, symptoms can last for several weeks or may come and go. If you experience prolonged diarrhea, contact your healthcare provider. Cyclosporiasis can be diagnosed with specialized testing and is treatable with antibiotics.
How can I reduce my risk?
Although it is not always possible to prevent cyclosporiasis, you can reduce your risk by:
- Washing your hands before preparing or eating food
- Rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables under clean running water before eating, cutting, or cooking
- Scrubbing firm produce (especially foods with an outside ring, such as melons) with a clean brush
- Refrigerating perishable produce promptly
- Avoiding preparing food for others if you have diarrhea or are feeling sick
Pay special attention to the following foods, which have been linked to previous Cyclospora outbreaks in the U.S. and Canada:
- Bagged salad mixes and kits
- Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves)
- Fresh basil
- Raspberries
- Snow peas
- Green onions (scallions)
What should I do if I become ill?
If you experience ongoing diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms, you should contact your health care provider for testing. If you are diagnosed with cyclosporiasis, you may be contacted by our team for an interview about foods you ate and places you visited before becoming sick. Your participation is an important part of identifying the source of the outbreak and helping prevent more cases in our community!
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Join Us: Community Conversation on Food Access and Nutrition
Food is a basic human need, but one out of every eight Kent County residents lacks reliable access to enough affordable and nutritious food.
Recent policies implemented by the federal government have resulted in changes to how individuals access governmental food assistance programs and the dietary guidelines that provide advice on what foods are best to meet nutrient needs, promote health, and prevent disease.
To help residents better understand what these recent changes mean, we are partnering with the University of Michigan School of Public Health and Kent County Essential Needs Task Force to host a community conversation on food access and nutrition:
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When? 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 21
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Where? 341 Hall Street SE, Grand Rapids
The event will feature experts discussing how community members can maintain their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and what the latest nutrition guidance means for our diets. Representatives from local organizations will also be available to provide information on local resources that help Kent County families overcome challenges with food access. Reserve your seat today by taking this quick survey, and learn more about the event on the Kent County Health Connect website.
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Your Voice Matters: Shape the Future of Health in Kent County
Every three years, our team works with community organizations and hospitals to better understand the health needs, strengths, and priorities of our community through the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). We use the information collected through this survey to guide local health improvement efforts and community investments until the cycle repeats again.
This year, we're especially excited to host a youth version of the survey for Kent County residents ages 13–17 to help ensure young people's voices are included in shaping future community health priorities.
Want to get involved?
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Take the survey if you are a Kent County resident age 13 or older. It’s anonymous, available in multiple languages, and only about 10-15 minutes long.
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Share the survey link with your friends, family, and social networks.
Every response helps ensure local decisions are informed by the people who live here. The more voices we hear, the better we can understand the needs of Kent County residents and work together to improve health for everyone.
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Sun Exposure: Reduce Your Risk While Enjoying the Outdoors
What’s about 4.6 billion years old, sits at the center of our solar system, and makes life on Earth possible? If you guessed the Sun, give yourself a gold star (and maybe some sunscreen) because this glowing ball of hydrogen and helium is definitely the main character.
While its surface is around 10,000 °F, the Sun's core reaches a blistering 27 million °F. And despite being 93 million miles away, its ultraviolet (UV) rays can still do serious damage, making sun protection essential all year long — but especially as more Michiganders head outside and hit the water during the summer.
Here are a few simple steps you can take to soak up the warm weather safely:
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Use sunscreen. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher before heading outdoors, and reapply at least every two hours—or more often if you're swimming or sweating.
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Wear a hat. Choose a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, ears, and the back of your neck for added protection from direct sunlight.
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Wear sunglasses. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to help protect your eyes and the sensitive skin around them from sun damage.
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Seek shade. Whenever possible, take breaks under trees, umbrellas, or other covered areas, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest.
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Cover up. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and clothing with built-in UV protection can help shield your skin while keeping you comfortable outdoors.
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Plan outdoor activities wisely. Schedule walks, yard work, sports, or trips to the beach for the morning, late afternoon, or evening to reduce your exposure during peak sun hours.
A little planning can go a long way toward protecting your skin and reducing your risk of sunburn and skin cancer. Whether you're relaxing by the lake, working in the yard, or cheering from the sidelines, we hope you enjoy everything a Michigan summer has to offer…safely!
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Heat Safety: Recognizing and Responding to Heat Illness
As summer temperatures climb, it's important to know the signs of heat-related illness and act quickly. Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and muscle cramps. If untreated, it can lead to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition marked by confusion, a rapid pulse, and a body temperature of 103°F or higher. If someone shows signs of heat stroke, call 911 right away and move them to a cooler place.
Pop-Up Public Health: Where to Find Our Mobile Unit This Summer
Summer is in full swing, and we continue to hit the road with a series of mobile unit events designed to meet residents right where they are as we bring health services and resources directly to the community. These outreach events are a great opportunity for us to connect, share information, and offer on-the-spot support.
Here is a look at where we'll be rolling to next:
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Food Access with North Kent Connect’s Fresh Connect: Tuesday, July 14 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
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City of Kentwood's Summer Concert Series: Thursday, July 16 from 6:30-8 p.m.
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Exalta Health Resource Fair: Friday, July 17 from 2-7 p.m.
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KDL Nelson Township Branch's Touch a Truck: Saturday, July 18 from 10-11 a.m.
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Unity in Motion: Saturday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Grand Rapids Children's Museum's Day of Play: Sunday, July 26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Food Access with North Kent Connect's Fresh Connect: Tuesday, July 28 from 12-2 p.m.
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Kent County Community Fest - South: Wednesday, July 29 from 4-7 p.m.
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West Michigan Whitecaps Game: Thursday, July 30 from 5-8 p.m.
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KDL Tyronne Township Branch's Touch a Truck: Friday, July 31 from 1-3 p.m.
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City of Kentwood's National Night Out: Tuesday, August 4 from 4:30-7:30 p.m.
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Cascade YMCA's National Night Out: Tuesday, August 4 from 4:30-7:30 p.m.
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WGVU's KidsDay at the Zoo: Thursday, August 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Storytime GR: Tuesday, August 11 from 6:30-8 p.m.
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Food Access with North Kent Connect's Fresh Connect: Tuesday, August 11 from 12-2 p.m.
For more information about services available at these events, please email Melissa Bisel or call 616-632-7096.
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Save the Dates: Two Community Fest Events This Summer
After a successful event last summer, we're excited to be on site offering information and resources on food safety, emergency preparedness, safe sleep, health education, mosquito and tick prevention, and more at two FREE Kent County Community Fests this year:
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South Community Fest: Wednesday, July 29 from 4-7 p.m. at Brewer Park in Byron Center
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North Community Fest: Thursday, August 13 from 4-7 p.m. at Kent County North Campus in Cedar Springs
These free, family-friendly events promise fun for all ages - so bring your friends and family to join the celebration!
Highlights include:
- Food trucks & free ice cream
- Kids’ activities: face painting, glitter tattoos, balloon animals
- Big trucks on display: fire engines, road equipment
- Meet 20+ County departments & access resources
- Sheriff’s K-9 demos & Mounted Unit meet-and-greets
Mark your calendars and don’t miss this opportunity to connect with services, resources, and community partners this summer!
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People’s Champion Award: Rosa Rodriguez Recognized for Positivity, Compassion, and Teamwork
Each month, the previous recipient of the People’s Champion Award selects the next honoree — a tradition that allows us to recognize staff who consistently go above and beyond their everyday responsibilities.
This month, we’re proud to recognize Rosa Rodriguez, an outreach worker in our Community Wellness Division, for the positivity, compassion, and enthusiasm she brings to the Health Department every day.
Rosa has a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and appreciated. Whether she’s greeting a new employee, supporting a coworker, or engaging with members of the public, her kindness, warmth, and genuine care leave a lasting impression. Her colleagues also admire her curiosity and eagerness to learn about the work of other divisions, showing her commitment to teamwork, continuous growth, and building strong connections across the organization.
Through her everyday actions, Rosa reminds us of the positive impact one person can have on those around them and on the community we serve. Please join us in congratulating Rosa on this well-deserved recognition as our People’s Champion!
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