The Cyclospora parasite outbreak in the United States has resulted in two reported deaths in Michigan, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The department noted that both individuals had significant underlying health conditions that may have been affected by cyclosporiasis and dehydration. They stated that death from cyclosporiasis is uncommon in the U.S. and that the illness is generally not life-threatening.
The outbreak has spread across the country this summer, primarily through contaminated produce such as lettuce, basil, cilantro, parsley, raspberries, blackberries, and snow peas. Symptoms of infection typically appear one to two weeks after exposure and include diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, extreme tiredness, low-grade fever, stomach cramps, and vomiting. As of now, cases have been reported in 47 states and the District of Columbia, with Michigan and Ohio being the hardest-hit states.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed nearly 7,000 laboratory cases and is monitoring more than 11,500 additional cases. Taylor Farms' iceberg lettuce from central Mexico was initially identified as a potential source of the outbreak, leading the company to voluntarily recall the affected product on July 17. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has indicated that one positive test result was a false positive but continues to investigate the outbreak, focusing on shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms. The FDA is collaborating with federal and state partners to ensure that implicated products are removed from the market.