Michigan reports first 2 deaths linked to the cyclospora outbreak
Two people have died in the cyclospora outbreak in Michigan, state health officials announced Monday, the first deaths confirmed in the U.S. related to the microscopic parasite . The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said both people had underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by the intestinal illness and dehydration. The department said it would not provide…
Michigan has reported its first two deaths linked to a cyclospora outbreak, state health officials announced on Monday. Both individuals had underlying health conditions that may have been exacerbated by the intestinal illness and dehydration. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services declined to provide further details about the deaths.
Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite, commonly causes watery diarrhea with frequent bowel movements. Outbreaks typically occur in late spring and summer. While the parasite rarely proves fatal, it spreads through feces-contaminated food, often fruits or vegetables irrigated with feces-laden water. In recent years, U.S. cyclospora outbreaks have become more frequent, with 4,700 cases reported in 2019 alone.
The current outbreak has been traced to lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in nine states, resulting in 1,947 confirmed cases and 98 hospitalizations as of late July. Federal health officials warn the actual number of sickened individuals may be higher due to underreporting.
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