2 Dead In MI Cyclosporiasis Outbreak As Cases Cross 11,000

Two people have now died in connection with Michigan's cyclosporiasis outbreak, according to health officials.

Officials did not identify the individuals but said both had significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration.

"Cyclosporiasis is generally not a life-threatening illness," Michigan Department of Health and Human Services officials said Monday. "Death resulting from cyclosporiasis is uncommon in the United States."

Officials said they will not provide any more information on the two cases.

The deaths come as more than 11,000 Michiganders have been sickened by the parasitic illness that can cause "explosive" diarrhea.

There have been at least 193 hospitalizations connected to Michigan's outbreak, according to health officials.

The majority of cases have been found in southeastern Michigan, with more than 1,000 confirmed cases in both Oakland and Wayne County alone.

CDC health officials have confirmed more than 6,000 cyclosporiasis cases with another 11,000 probable cases across 45 states since May.

On average, health officials said the entire U.S. typically sees about 3,000 cyclosporiasis cases a year.

Officials are still trying to find the source of the outbreak. They do believe lettuce and other salad mixes are tied to the outbreak, but have not yet identified an exact source.

The FDA initially targeted lettuce served at multiple Taco Bell locations across five states, including Michigan.

Taylor Farms, a lettuce supplier to some Taco Bell locations, voluntarily recalled some of its products as Taco Bell quickly stopped selling lettuce at select locations.

However, the FDA said there was a mistake during testing and could not definitely label the lettuce as the cause of the outbreak.

Officials have recommended buying whole heads of lettuce rather than pre-washed, bagged lettuce or pre-mixed salad kits; discarding outer layers of lettuce heads; washing inner leaves; and cooking greens that can be cooked to at least 158 degrees.