The Cyclospora Outbreak Has Sickened Thousands Across The U.S.; The First Deaths Have Now Been Reported

Michigan health officials have confirmed the first two deaths linked to the ongoing cyclospora outbreak, marking what appears to be the first reported fatalities associated with the nationwide foodborne illness outbreak. Health officials noted that deaths from the parasitic illness are uncommon in the United States because the infection is generally treatable and is not usually considered life-threatening, CNBC reported. Michigan has reported 11,234 outbreak-related cases and 193 hospitalizations, making it the state hardest hit by the outbreak, according to the MDHHS. Brands' Taco Bell locations in multiple states, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), reported Reuters. Federal investigators are also examining at least one additional cyclospora outbreak involving an unidentified food source, according to the FDA's active outbreak investigations database.