Michigan cyclosporiasis outbreak reports first deaths, cases top 11,500

Investing.com -- Michigan health officials reported 11,508 cases linked to a cyclosporiasis outbreak on Tuesday, an increase of more than 200 cases from the previous day. The state also confirmed the first two deaths connected to the outbreak, noting both individuals had significant underlying health conditions.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration investigation connected the outbreak to iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants. The lettuce was sourced from Taylor Farms operations in central Mexico. The outbreak has spread to nine states, and authorities continue to search for other potential sources.

Michigan stated the two deaths were associated with illnesses that started before the FDA announced a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce by Taylor Farms on July 17.

The outbreak has led to 193 hospitalizations in Michigan as of July 30, according to the state health department's latest update.

Cyclospora infections cause diarrhea, nausea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. The disease is contracted by consuming food, typically raw fruits and vegetables, or water contaminated with feces.

Consumers in the U.S. have avoided some restaurant chains and reduced lettuce purchases in grocery stores as the parasitic disease has created confusion about food safety.

Former CDC officials and food safety experts said cuts across federal health agencies have made it more difficult for the government to respond to foodborne disease outbreaks.

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