Michigan health officials confirmed on August 1, 2026, the first two deaths linked to a cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting nine states. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported that both individuals had significant underlying health conditions that may have been exacerbated by cyclosporiasis and dehydration. The department noted that cyclosporiasis is not generally considered life-threatening, and deaths from the illness are uncommon in the United States.
As of July 30, Michigan has reported 11,234 outbreak-related cases and 193 hospitalizations, making it the hardest-hit state. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledged the deaths and stated it will update its national outbreak statistics accordingly. The CDC is investigating a multistate outbreak linked to recalled lettuce sourced from central Mexico and distributed by Taylor Farms, advising consumers not to eat the recalled lettuce and to discard or return affected products.
According to CDC data, at least 1,947 people have been sickened in the outbreak, with 98 hospitalized. Federal investigators have linked one major outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants, while also investigating other unrelated cyclosporiasis outbreaks nationwide. The outbreak has affected states including Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, leading to a decrease in produce purchases, as a recent poll indicated that 40% of respondents are buying and consuming less produce. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection often contracted through contaminated food or water, with symptoms including watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, nausea, and fatigue.