Health officials in Michigan have confirmed two deaths linked to a widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora. These fatalities mark the first reported deaths connected to the current outbreak affecting nine states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Both individuals who died had underlying health conditions that may have been worsened by cyclosporiasis and dehydration, Michigan’s health department reported. The state has been the epicenter of the outbreak, recording 11,234 confirmed cases and 193 hospitalizations to date.

The ongoing outbreak has been traced to iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms, which has been identified as the likely source of the parasite. Cyclospora is typically transmitted through food or water contaminated with human feces. The infection causes severe diarrhea lasting days to several weeks and is usually treated with antibiotics.

Experts note that deaths from cyclosporiasis are uncommon in the United States. John Guzewich, a former Food and Drug Administration official specializing in foodborne illness outbreaks, stated that he was not aware of any previous U.S. fatalities linked to Cyclospora reported by the CDC. Matthew Moore, a food safety microbiologist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, added that while deaths are rare, prolonged diarrhea can pose serious risks to vulnerable populations, including infants, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

The two deaths occur amid the largest recorded cyclosporiasis outbreak in U.S. history. Since May 1, the CDC has reported more than 18,000 confirmed or suspected cases across 45 states, with 423 hospitalizations linked to the parasite.

Michigan health officials expressed cautious optimism about the outbreak’s trajectory in their state. Weekly new case counts have decreased from approximately 3,500 in mid-July to just over 2,000 reported last week, signaling a possible easing of the situation.

Health authorities continue to investigate and monitor the outbreak, emphasizing the importance of proper food handling and hygiene practices to prevent further spread of Cyclospora.