USA: first deaths from cyclosporiasis outbreak, possibly linked to iceberg lettuce

Health authorities in the US state of Michigan confirmed on Monday the first two deaths linked to the cyclosporiasis outbreak currently affecting several US states. Both individuals had severe pre-existing conditions, and their health is believed to have deteriorated as a result of the infection and dehydration caused by the illness, according to CNN.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services stated: "Two deaths have been identified as part of the cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting Michigan. Based on medical records, both individuals had significant pre-existing conditions that may have been affected by cyclosporiasis and dehydration." Authorities provided no further details about the two cases.

Over 18,000 suspected cases across the US

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that it is aware of the two deaths, noting that they form part of the ongoing outbreak. According to the CDC, the number of cases this year is unusually high: more than 18,000 suspected infections have been recorded across the country, of which 6,707 have been confirmed, with approximately 11,500 still undergoing laboratory analysis to determine the source of infection.

Michigan alone has reported 11,234 cases, with 193 people requiring hospitalisation. Specialists note, however, that deaths caused by cyclosporiasis remain rare, and the illness is not generally considered life-threatening.

What is cyclosporiasis

Cyclosporiasis is an infection caused by a microscopic parasite that can contaminate fresh food or water. The primary symptom is severe diarrhoea, which sometimes resolves without treatment, but if left untreated can persist for a month or more. Prolonged diarrhoea can lead to severe dehydration, a complication that poses a heightened risk particularly for elderly individuals or those with chronic conditions.

Iceberg lettuce under investigation

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), together with the CDC and health authorities in the affected states, is investigating several cyclosporiasis outbreaks that have emerged this year, including a large-scale one in the Midwest region. The epidemiological investigation points to a possible link with iceberg lettuce supplied by the company Taylor Farms. The suspected products have been recalled from the market, though authorities estimate that by the time of the recall, they had already been consumed or removed from shops.

Annual rise during the warm season

According to the CDC, the number of cyclosporiasis infections typically rises during the spring and summer months, with the epidemiological season usually running from early May to the end of August. US authorities are warning, however, that the scale of this year's outbreak exceeds levels seen in previous seasons.