Michigan reports first two U.S. deaths in cyclospora outbreak

Aug 3, 2026

Michigan has reported the first two U.S. deaths in a widespread cyclospora outbreak, the worst in recent history. The two individuals had underlying health conditions. Since May 1, the CDC has confirmed over 6,700 cases nationwide. Federal officials have linked the outbreak to lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell and recalled by Taylor Farms, which is tied to nearly 2,000 cases and 98 hospitalizations.

Michigan cyclospora deaths

▪The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services stated both deceased individuals had underlying health conditions.
▪Two people have died in Michigan from a cyclospora outbreak, the first confirmed U.S. deaths in the event.
▪Michigan has reported 11,234 cases and 193 hospitalizations tied to the outbreak.

Cyclospora parasite characteristics

▪Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the bowels and spreads through feces-contaminated water on produce.
▪Cyclosporiasis is rarely deadly, and outbreaks are most common in the late spring and summer.
▪The illness it causes, cyclosporiasis, commonly results in watery diarrhea with frequent bowel movements.

U.S. outbreak scale

▪The number of U.S. cyclospora cases began rising about a decade ago, with a notable spike in 2018 and 2019.
▪Since May 1, the CDC has received reports of more than 6,700 laboratory-confirmed cases across the U.S.
▪The current outbreak is considered the worst in recent history, surpassing the previous record of about 4,700 cases in 2019.
▪In addition to confirmed cases, the CDC is investigating more than 7,400 other likely cases across 41 states.

Taco Bell lettuce source

▪In mid-July, Taylor Farms recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico that was sold in grocery stores and served in restaurants.
▪As of late July, 1,947 cases, including at least 98 hospitalizations, were linked to the lettuce from Taco Bell.
▪Federal health officials identified lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in nine states as a source of the outbreak.