Two people have died in connection with a cyclosporiasis outbreak in Michigan, United States of America, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
The health department updated its case numbers on Monday, August 3, confirming that the two deaths occurred during the spread of the infectious disease across the state. The victims were not identified, but MDHHS said medical records showed both individuals had “significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration.”
The department added that it would not release further details about the cases. According to MDHHS, cyclosporiasis is “generally not a life-threatening illness,” and deaths linked to the infection are considered uncommon in the United States.
More than 11,000 cases have been reported in Michigan, with 193 people requiring hospital treatment. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed it was aware of the two deaths and said they involved people with underlying health conditions as part of the Michigan outbreak.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora, which can contaminate food or water. The infection commonly causes severe diarrhoea and gastrointestinal symptoms. The CDC said cases usually increase during spring and summer in the US, with the typical season running from early May through late August. However, reported cases this year have been significantly higher than usual.
The CDC has identified more than 18,000 domestic cyclosporiasis cases this season, including 6,707 confirmed cases, while around 11,500 additional cases are undergoing laboratory testing to determine whether they were acquired within the US.
Health officials are investigating multiple clusters of cyclosporiasis cases, including a major multistate outbreak affecting parts of the Midwest. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), working with the CDC and state health authorities, has been examining possible sources of contamination.
An investigation previously focused on iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms, which was linked to Taco Bell’s lettuce supply chain, but later testing was described as a false positive. Iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms has since been recalled, with officials warning that contaminated products may already have been consumed or removed from store shelves.