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NewsWSVN 7 MiamiAugust 3, 2026Miami-Dade

Michigan health officials confirm first two U.S. deaths linked to cyclospora outbreak

Michigan health officials have confirmed the first two U.S. deaths associated with a nationwide cyclospora outbreak. The intestinal illness, caused by a microscopic parasite, has seen over 18,000 confirmed or suspected cases reported during the current surge.

public healthfood safetycyclosporadisease outbreak
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Why It Matters

Residents should be aware of the ongoing outbreak, which has been linked to contaminated produce and has resulted in thousands of hospitalizations nationwide.

Key Facts

  • Michigan health officials confirmed the first two U.S. deaths linked to the current cyclospora outbreak.
  • Both deceased individuals had underlying health conditions.
  • The CDC reports over 18,000 confirmed or suspected cases in the current surge, though state reports suggest the number exceeds 20,000.
  • Federal officials identified lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in nine states as a source of the outbreak.
  • As of late July, 1,947 cases were linked to the contaminated lettuce, with at least 98 hospitalizations.
  • Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes watery diarrhea and is typically spread through feces-contaminated water or produce.
  • Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis are most common during late spring and summer.
  • The number of reported U.S. cases began rising about a decade ago, with notable spikes in 2018 and 2019.
  • The 2019 season previously held the record for the most reported cases at approximately 4,700.

Who's Mentioned

other1,947“Cases linked specifically to contaminated lettuce.”other20,000“Estimated nationwide cases based on state reports.”other18,000“Number of confirmed or suspected cases reported by the CDC.”organizationTaco Bell“Restaurant chain linked to contaminated lettuce in nine states.”organizationMichigan Department of Health and Human Services“State agency reporting the deaths.”other98“Number of people hospitalized due to the lettuce-linked cases.”organizationCenters for Disease Control and Prevention“Federal agency tracking the outbreak.”