The Cyclospora Outbreak Has Sickened Thousands Across The U.S.; The First Deaths Have Now Been Reported

Michigan health officials have confirmed the first two deaths linked to the ongoing cyclospora outbreak, marking what appears to be the first reported fatalities associated with the nationwide foodborne illness outbreak.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) said Monday that both individuals had significant underlying health conditions that may have been worsened by cyclosporiasis and dehydration. Health officials noted that deaths from the parasitic illness are uncommon in the United States because the infection is generally treatable and is not usually considered life-threatening, CNBC reported.

Michigan has reported 11,234 outbreak-related cases and 193 hospitalizations, making it the state hardest hit by the outbreak, according to the MDHHS. According to AP News, the state's reported case count is substantially higher than the number of laboratory-confirmed infections tracked nationally by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) because Michigan also includes probable cases that have not yet been confirmed through laboratory testing.

The CDC has confirmed 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis reported since May 1. Federal health officials have said the actual number of illnesses is likely much higher because many suspected cases remain under investigation or have not been confirmed by laboratory testing.

The outbreak has been linked to iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. In July, Taylor Farms de Mexico voluntarily recalled certain iceberg lettuce products after epidemiological investigations pointed to the ingredient as the likely source of infections. The recalled lettuce was distributed to retailers and supplied to several restaurant chains, including Yum! Brands' Taco Bell locations in multiple states, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), reported Reuters.

The FDA and CDC are continuing a multistate investigation involving illnesses reported across at least nine states, including Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The agencies have cautioned that additional cases may continue to emerge because it can take several weeks to determine whether an infected person is part of the outbreak.

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that spreads when contaminated food or water is consumed. The illness, known as cyclosporiasis, typically causes prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue and loss of appetite. Fresh produce, particularly leafy greens, herbs and berries, has historically been among the foods most commonly associated with cyclospora outbreaks, according to the FDA.

Federal investigators are also examining at least one additional cyclospora outbreak involving an unidentified food source, according to the FDA's active outbreak investigations database. Health officials have urged consumers to follow recall notices and food safety guidance while the investigations continue.