State health officials in Michigan announced Monday that two people have died from cyclospora infections, marking the first confirmed deaths in the United States linked to the microscopic parasite.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said both individuals had underlying health conditions that may have been aggravated by the intestinal illness and resulting dehydration. State authorities stated they will not be providing additional details regarding the deaths.
Cyclospora contaminates food that comes into contact with human feces, typically when crops are irrigated or washed with contaminated water. Ingestion of the parasite leads to gastrointestinal illness characterized by “frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Federal health officials have traced part of the outbreak to lettuce grown in Mexico and served at Taco Bell locations across five states.
The nationwide outbreak has reached record levels this year. Since May 1, the CDC has logged more than 4,100 confirmed cases and is investigating over 7,400 suspected cases across 41 states.
Federal officials noted that additional “brands, restaurants, retailers, or distribution channels” could be identified as the joint investigation moves forward.
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