Michigan Reports First Two U.S. Deaths in Outbreak of Cyclospora

Michigan health officials announced the first two confirmed US deaths in an ongoing cyclospora outbreak, STAT reported on August 3. The deaths are linked to a multi-state outbreak of the microscopic parasite, which causes gastrointestinal illness.

What Is Cyclospora

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine. It is typically spread through contaminated food or water, particularly fresh produce. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. The illness can last for weeks if untreated, and is particularly dangerous for immunocompromised people.

"Two people have died in the cyclospora outbreak in Michigan in the first confirmed deaths in the U.S. related to the microscopic parasite, state health officials announced," STAT wrote.

The Outbreak

The current outbreak is multi-state, with cases reported in more than a dozen states. The CDC and state health departments are working to identify the source, which is suspected to be a specific produce item. The UK has seen a sharp rise in cyclospora cases since April, with 67 confirmed cases - many of them among travelers returning from Mexico, the BBC reported.

What's Next

Investigators are using genetic sequencing to identify the outbreak strain and trace it back to its source. The FDA is involved in the supply-chain traceback. The CDC has issued updated guidance for clinicians, urging them to consider cyclospora in patients with prolonged diarrhea who have traveled or who have eaten fresh produce recently.