Michigan health officials have confirmed the first two deaths linked to the ongoing cyclospora outbreak, a parasitic infection spread through contaminated food or water that causes severe diarrhoea. Both individuals had "significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration," according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). No further details about the deceased have been released.

The outbreak has affected more than 11,000 people in Michigan alone, including 193 hospitalisations, although many cases have not been laboratory-confirmed. Nationwide, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports nearly 7,000 laboratory-confirmed cases across 45 states, with additional cases under investigation.

Federal health officials have linked the outbreak in Michigan and eight other states to shredded iceberg lettuce served at some Taco Bell restaurants. Taylor Farms, the supplier of the lettuce sourced from central Mexico, issued a voluntary recall of all iceberg lettuce from that region on July 17. Consumers are advised to discard or return any such lettuce.

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestines and spreads through faecal contamination. The CDC recommends cooking produce to at least 70°C (158°F) to kill the parasite. While the illness can cause severe symptoms, deaths are rare and the infection is not usually life-threatening.

State health officials continue to investigate the source of the outbreak and are working with local health departments and partners to provide updates as more information becomes available.

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