Michigan confirms first two U.S. deaths linked to cyclosporiasis outbreak

Health

Michigan confirms first two U.S. deaths linked to cyclosporiasis outbreak

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REUTERS

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LATIMES

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Michigan confirms first two U.S. deaths linked to cyclosporiasis outbreak

Credited from: LATIMES

Two deaths reported in Michigan due to cyclosporiasis outbreak.
Over 11,000 cases linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce.
Cyclospora parasite is typically not deadly, affecting mostly those with underlying conditions.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed that two individuals have died as a result of the cyclosporiasis outbreak, marking the first fatalities related to this outbreak in the U.S. State health officials stated that both individuals had significant underlying health conditions that could have been exacerbated by the illness and dehydration, but no further details will be provided about these cases, according to Reuters and NPR.

This outbreak has resulted in **over 11,000 recorded cases** in Michigan, primarily linked to contaminated lettuce from Taco Bell. Nationwide, more than **18,000 confirmed and suspected cases** of cyclosporiasis have been reported, which has led authorities to investigate potential sources, including various restaurants and retailers, according to Los Angeles Times and South China Morning Post.

The **Centers for Disease Control and Prevention** (CDC) notes that while cyclosporiasis can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, it is rarely fatal. The parasite is typically transmitted through contaminated food, particularly fruits and vegetables exposed to feces, as pointed out by Al Jazeera and Los Angeles Times.