The first deaths linked to a nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak have been reported in Michigan, where over 11,000 individuals have fallen ill. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported that the two victims had significant underlying health conditions that may have been exacerbated by cyclosporiasis and dehydration. Their identities have not been disclosed.
Since May, the outbreak has resulted in 193 hospitalizations in Michigan, with health officials investigating cases associated with recalled iceberg lettuce distributed by Taylor Farms. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that the outbreak is "under control," despite concerns from public health experts regarding staffing and funding cuts that have affected federal agencies' ability to respond to foodborne illness outbreaks.
Craig Hedberg, co-director of the Minnesota Integrated Food Safety Center of Excellence, noted that federal funding cuts over the past year have diminished the capacity to respond effectively to such outbreaks. Cyclosporiasis, caused by the Cyclospora parasite, can lead to prolonged diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration, but is generally not considered life-threatening, with deaths being uncommon in the United States.
Cases have been reported in at least 45 states, with outbreaks identified in nine states: Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The outbreak has been traced to recalled iceberg lettuce distributed by Taylor Farms between June 29 and July 16. Some illnesses have also been linked to a Taco Bell location that used the lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Taco Bell has since ceased using the supplier, and Taylor Farms de México has issued a recall of the affected lettuce.