Two Die in Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Recalled Lettuce

Two people have died in connection with a significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora. Michigan health officials announced the fatalities on Monday, stating that medical records indicated both individuals had underlying health conditions that were likely exacerbated by the infection and dehydration.

The outbreak has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce grown in Mexico, leading to a recall by Taylor Farms. This recall affected produce distributed across at least nine states, contributing to thousands of reported cases of the diarrheal illness.

Cyclosporiasis infections are typically spread through contaminated fresh produce. The parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis, is transmitted via human feces and can adhere to uneven surfaces of fruits and vegetables. While fatalities from this parasite are considered rare, experts expressed surprise given the scale of the current outbreak.

Officials noted that both deceased individuals fell ill prior to the Taylor Farms lettuce recall. Previous outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been associated with various produce items, including fresh herbs, raspberries, green onions, and snow peas.