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Two Deaths Reported as Cyclospora Outbreak Is Linked to Shredded Lettuce

Testing backlogs coupled with the parasite's biology are slowing case confirmation and extending public risk.

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness usually spread through contaminated fresh produce or water. (CDC via AP, File)
Thousands of people have gotten sick from cyclospora in the largest U.S. outbreak ever — which health officials have partially linked to lettuce grown in Mexico in an ongoing investigation. While people should pay attention to recalls, food safety experts stress that not all produce is contaminated. Shahla Farzan/Harvest Public Media

Overview

  • Michigan confirmed late Monday that two people with significant underlying conditions died in connection with the multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak and that dehydration likely played a role.
  • State officials say Michigan has reported about 11,234 cases with 193 hospitalizations while the CDC lists 6,707 laboratory-confirmed infections and roughly 11,500 additional suspected cases under review.
  • The FDA has traced a major cluster to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms and imported from central Mexico, prompting product withdrawals and Taco Bell removing the item, but investigators continue to probe other possible produce sources.
  • Public-health labs are backlogged and diagnostic limits for Cyclospora — a 2–14 day incubation period, requirement for specific stool testing, inability to culture the organism, and low DNA yield — have hindered genetic linking and traceback work.
  • Officials advise avoiding pre-cut or bagged salad mixes, using whole-head lettuce or cooking produce to 158°F to kill the parasite, and seeking testing and treatment with trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole for persistent diarrhoea, with extra caution for older adults and immunocompromised people.