Michigan Reports First Two Deaths in Major US Cyclospora Outbreak
Michigan health officials reported two deaths among people infected during a major US cyclosporiasis outbreak; both patients had significant underlying conditions.
In short
- Michigan health officials reported two deaths among people infected during a major US cyclosporiasis outbreak; both patients had significant underlying conditions.
Michigan health officials said on Monday, August 3, 2026, that two people infected during the current US cyclosporiasis outbreak have died, marking the first reported fatalities linked to the outbreak.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said both people had significant underlying health conditions that may have been worsened by the intestinal infection and dehydration. Officials stressed that cyclosporiasis is generally not life-threatening and deaths from it are uncommon in the United States.
Michigan reported 11,234 outbreak-linked cases and 193 hospitalisations in its latest update. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had recorded 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases nationwide as of July 28, while additional suspected cases remained under investigation. Differences between state and federal totals reflect the use of probable cases in some state reporting.
Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause prolonged diarrhoea, nausea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. An investigation has linked part of the multistate outbreak to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms operations in central Mexico, while authorities continue examining other possible sources.
