The death toll linked to the ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak in the United States has risen after health authorities in Michigan confirmed that two people have died from illnesses associated with the parasite.
The fatalities, announced on Monday, are the first reported deaths connected to the multistate outbreak, which has caused thousands of cases of severe diarrheal illness across the country.
“Two deaths have been identified as part of the cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting Michigan. According to medical records, both individuals had significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration. No additional information will be provided on these two cases,” according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
State health officials noted that fatalities from cyclosporiasis are uncommon because the disease is “generally not a life-threatening illness.”
Michigan has recorded 11,234 cases of the infection so far, with 193 patients requiring hospitalization.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also confirmed the deaths on its website, stating that it “is aware of two cyclosporiasis-related deaths in people with underlying health conditions from Michigan as part of this outbreak.”
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite that spreads through contaminated food or water, often resulting in prolonged and severe diarrhea.
According to the CDC, infections typically increase during the warmer months, with the annual season running from early May through late August. However, officials say the number of cases this year has been unusually high.
Nationwide, more than 18,000 cases have been identified during the current outbreak. Of these, 6,707 have been confirmed, while approximately 11,500 remain under laboratory review to determine whether the infections were acquired within the United States.
The US Food and Drug Administration, working alongside the CDC and state health agencies, is investigating several clusters of infections, including a major multistate outbreak concentrated in the Midwest.
As part of the response, iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms has been recalled.
Health officials warned that some contaminated products may already have been consumed or discarded before the recall was issued.
