Two individuals have died in Michigan due to an outbreak of cyclospora, marking the first confirmed deaths in the U.S. related to this parasite, according to state health officials. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported that both individuals had underlying health conditions that may have contributed to their deaths from the intestinal illness and dehydration. The department did not provide further details about the deceased.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that typically causes watery diarrhea, characterized by frequent bowel movements, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis are most common in late spring and summer. The CDC notes that while the illness can be serious, it is rarely fatal.
The parasite spreads through feces and can infect the intestines. Past outbreaks have been linked to the consumption of fruits or vegetables contaminated by feces through irrigation water. Cyclosporiasis is less prevalent than other foodborne illnesses, such as salmonella and E. coli, and many cases are not traced to specific food sources. However, the number of reported cases has been increasing over the past decade, with significant spikes noted in 2018 and 2019, which saw approximately 4,700 cases.
Currently, the CDC has reported over 18,000 confirmed or suspected cases in the ongoing outbreak, although state reports indicate the actual number may exceed 20,000 nationwide. Federal health officials have identified lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in nine states as a potential source of the outbreak, with 1,947 cases linked to this lettuce, including at least 98 hospitalizations. The CDC has indicated that other brands, restaurants, retailers, or distribution channels may also be involved as the investigation continues.