Michigan Reports First Two Deaths in Widespread Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

Michigan health officials have confirmed the state's first two deaths linked to a major cyclosporiasis outbreak that has surged to 11,234 cases statewide amid a national increase.

Key points

• The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported that both deceased individuals had significant underlying health conditions.
• The outbreak has led to 193 hospitalizations across most of Michigan's 82 counties, with Wayne, Washtenaw, Oakland, and Ingham being the hardest hit.
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention investigators have linked many cases to iceberg lettuce, leading Taylor Farms to recall iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico.
• Health officials recommend thoroughly washing produce, cooking leafy greens to 158 degrees or higher to kill the parasite, and preparing whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-washed greens.

Why it matters

The severe surge in cyclosporiasis cases and the first reported deaths highlight significant food safety concerns and public health risks tied to a national outbreak.