Two Michigan Residents Die Amid Largest U.S. Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

Two people with cyclosporiasis have died as Michigan experiences its largest outbreak of the parasitic illness, state health officials said Monday. The department did not disclose the victims' ages, counties or other circumstances, noting that both individuals had significant underlying health conditions that may have been worsened by the infection and dehydration. "No additional information will be provided on these two cases," the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said.

The deaths are the first reported by a U.S. state health department during the current summer outbreak, which began in late June and has affected multiple states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had recorded no deaths through July 27. While cyclosporiasis typically causes frequent, watery diarrhea and is not usually life-threatening, officials emphasized that fatalities are rare. "Death resulting from cyclosporiasis is uncommon in the United States," the department said, and Dr. Rebecca Schein of Michigan State University called such deaths "extremely rare."

Michigan has logged 11,234 cases since June 22, an 8% rise from the previous week's total, far exceeding the state's usual annual count of about 50. The outbreak, linked to contaminated lettuce, has spread to 71 counties, with the highest case numbers in Wayne, Oakland, Washtenaw and Ingham counties. Hospitalizations in the state have reached 193, while the CDC reported 423 nationwide through July 27. Cases peaked on July 13 with 726 reported in a single day before declining.

Health experts warned that older adults, immunocompromised patients and those with multiple comorbidities are at greater risk. Dr. Teena Chopra of Wayne State University urged early medical attention, noting that the antibiotic Bactrim can treat the infection. "I would urge people to seek help early on because there is an antibiotic that we can give for it," she said.

Investigations by the CDC, FDA and state officials have focused on iceberg lettuce grown by Taylor Farms in central Mexico. The company temporarily shut its processing facility and recalled shredded lettuce sold to major distributors after the link was identified.

In nearby Windsor-Essex County, Ontario, health officials reported 24 cases, a sharp increase from the typical three, and advised residents to take precautions when traveling to Michigan.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recommends purchasing whole heads of lettuce or salad greens, removing outer leaves, trimming damaged areas and washing produce thoroughly. It added that while lettuce is the primary suspect, other foods cannot be completely ruled out, and general food-safety practices—wash, peel, cook—should continue.