Cyclospora outbreak spreads to 45 US states, two deaths confirmed in Michigan
Nearly 7,000 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported nationwide, with the outbreak linked to salad supplies imported from Mexico.
WASHINGTON – Michigan health officials on Monday confirmed the first two deaths linked to the ongoing cyclospora outbreak, a parasitic infection spread through contaminated food or water that can cause severe diarrhoea.
State health authorities said both individuals had significant pre-existing health conditions that may have been worsened by cyclosporiasis infection and dehydration.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the foodborne illness has now spread to 45 states, with nearly 7,000 laboratory-confirmed cases reported nationwide.
Despite the thousands of infections, the CDC said deaths from cyclosporiasis are extremely rare as the illness is usually not life-threatening.
Michigan has become the epicentre of the outbreak, with records showing more than 11,000 cases and 193 hospital admissions, although a large portion of those have yet to be confirmed by laboratory testing.
How it spreads
The parasite, which thrives in warm environments, infects the intestines and is transmitted through faecal contamination. Previous outbreaks have occurred when people consumed fruits or vegetables irrigated with water contaminated by faeces.
Authorities have linked this year's widespread transmission to salad supplies imported from Taylor Farms in Mexico, a major supplier to many food outlets across the United States.
US fast-food chain Taco Bell confirmed it has removed salad supplies from the supplier from its menu.
Taylor Farms has also announced a voluntary recall of salad supplies sourced from Mexico. – AGENCIES
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