MICHIGAN / RankWire.AI / – Michigan has verified two fatalities associated with its 2026 cyclosporiasis outbreak, marking the state’s first recorded deaths related to the incident. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported a total of 11,234 cases as of Aug. 3. Through July 30, it also documented 193 hospitalizations. Medical records indicated that both individuals suffered from significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration. Authorities stated they would not release additional details about these two cases.
Both patients fell ill before the voluntary iceberg lettuce recall announced on July 17. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the Michigan deaths on Aug. 3, describing them as deaths related to cyclosporiasis involving people with pre-existing health issues. The total number of cases reported by Michigan encompasses all during the investigation period and remains subject to updates. Federal surveillance figures typically include laboratory-confirmed cases and may differ from state-reported totals that also account for probable illnesses.
Federal authorities are also examining a nine-state Cyclospora outbreak connected to iceberg lettuce sourced from Taylor Farms de Mexico. As of July 24, nine states had reported 1,947 infected individuals who also reported exposure to Taco Bell. At least 98 of these patients required hospitalization according to federal data. The onset of symptoms ranged from June 22 to July 20. The CDC later highlighted Michigan’s two deaths, which had not been reflected in the detailed federal totals released on July 24.
Recall involves iceberg lettuce imported from central Mexico
Taylor Farms de Mexico withdrew all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico from the U.S. marketplace. The recall covered various foodservice products and Marketside iceberg salads and shredded lettuce sold at selected Walmart locations. The use-by dates on affected products ranged from July 18 through Aug. 3. Between June 29 and July 16, Taylor Fresh Foods distributed affected lettuce to 27 states. Taco Bell ceased using lettuce from the supplier on July 17.
Michigan officials have not linked every case within the state to the recalled iceberg lettuce. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services indicated that lettuce or salad greens could still be a potential source. However, the state has not pinpointed a single product, grower, or supplier for the entire outbreak. Officials also emphasized that other food items cannot be entirely ruled out from the ongoing investigation. The federal outbreak associated with lettuce accounts for only part of the cyclosporiasis cases reported nationwide.
Persistent symptoms can occur if untreated
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal disease caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora. Infection occurs after consuming contaminated food or water. Typical symptoms include frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms generally start about a week after exposure, though the timing can vary. Without proper treatment, the illness can last over a month, and symptoms may resolve only to recur later.
Health officials recommend consumers discard any recalled iceberg lettuce still in their possession or return it to the point of purchase. They should also thoroughly clean containers and surfaces that have touched the recalled product. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a healthcare provider, especially if they have eaten iceberg lettuce in the previous two weeks. Michigan continues to update case numbers as investigations by state and local health authorities proceed regarding the outbreak.