Michigan Records First Deaths in Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Amid National Surge
State leads nationwide cases as contaminated lettuce from Mexico prompts recalls and menu changes.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Callum Smith
Michigan health officials have confirmed the first two deaths linked to the state's ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak.
The state now reports 11,234 individuals sickened and nearly 200 hospitalized. This outbreak has expanded to nine states, its origins traced to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms operations in central Mexico.
Taylor Farms has recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from Central Mexico due to contamination concerns. US fast-food chain Taco Bell removed the supplier's lettuce from its menu.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledges more than 18,000 confirmed or suspected cases in the current cyclospora surge. Illness onset dates range from June 22 to July 20, with the surge understood to have begun on May 1, 2026.
CDC figures can lag state reports. State data suggests the national total exceeds 20,000 cases.
Two deceased patients reportedly had significant underlying health conditions. Michigan health authorities claim these conditions may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration.
No additional information will be provided on these two cases.
Symptoms of infection, including vomiting, nausea, and dehydration, can take weeks to appear. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services stated, "No additional information will be provided on these two cases."
Elsewhere, reports indicate outbreaks in the U.K.