Michigan reports 2 deaths related to the diarrhea-causing parasite that is plaguing the US
The two individuals, whose identities have not been released, had significant underlying health conditions that may have been worsened by the parasite, leading to dehydration.
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MICHIGAN - Two Michigan residents who contracted the diarrhea-causing parasitic illness cyclosporiasis have died, according to the state's Department of Health and Human Services.
The agency told FOX Weather in a statement that the two individuals, whose identities have not been released, had significant underlying health conditions that may have been worsened by the parasite, leading to dehydration.
The state said it was unable to provide additional details at this time.
Woman holding her stomach in pain, suffering from period cramps or stomach ache at home
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This marks the first U.S. deaths linked to the illness since the outbreak started in May.
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, which is spread through food or water contaminated with human feces.
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The illness can cause watery diarrhea along with other gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach cramps, abdominal pain, bloating and increased gas.
Health officials said symptoms can last for weeks, or even months if left untreated. But, in most cases, cyclosporiasis is not considered life-threatening.
Technician holding a specimen container with stool sample for cyclospora test, to diagnosis of cyclosporiasis by examining under a microscope and finding oocysts.
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Since May 1, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received reports of 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases across 45 states.
"We assume a six-week reporting lag between illness onset and case reporting to CDC; therefore, we anticipate that case counts will continue to rise as data are received," the CDC said.
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Michigan is experiencing one of the nation's largest outbreaks, which has reported more than 11,000 cases statewide.
Patient consulting doctor about abdominal pain during a medical examination
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According to FOX News Digital, as of Thursday, 193 people with reported infections in Michigan had been hospitalized as of May.
The outbreak has been linked to lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms in Mexico.
Close up of woman's hands holding a colander full of fresh vegetables under running water in kitchen sink
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Last month, the company voluntarily removed all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico from the U.S. market.
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State health officials, however, are continuing to investigate other cyclosporiasis outbreaks and illnesses across the country that are not related to this outbreak.