Cyclosporiasis outbreak: first deaths reported in Michigan as CDC tracks rising cases

Michigan health officials have reported the first deaths linked to the ongoing multi-state cyclosporiasis outbreak in the United States.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, two people with underlying health conditions died after contracting the parasitic illness.

“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,” the department said.

The department added that deaths from cyclosporiasis are uncommon because the infection is “generally not a life-threatening illness.” Michigan has reported 11,234 cases so far, including 193 hospitalisations.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said it “is aware of two cyclosporiasis-related deaths in people with underlying health conditions from Michigan as part of this outbreak.”

Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite that contaminates food or water and can trigger severe diarrhoea.

The CDC has identified more than 18,000 cases this season, including 6,707 confirmed infections, while thousands more remain under investigation.

Health authorities are investigating several outbreaks, including a large cluster centred in the Midwest.

Iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms has been recalled after being linked to the outbreak, although officials say many affected products have likely already been consumed or removed from shelves.