First deaths from parasite that causes ‘explosive’ symptoms reported in Michigan… as cases in the state top 11,000

The first two deaths from a parasite outbreak causing ‘explosive’ diarrhea have been reported.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced Monday that two people in the state with ‘significant underlying health conditions’ have died in connection with an outbreak of the intestinal illness cyclosporiasis, caused by the cyclospora parasite.

‘Two deaths have been identified as part of the cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting Michigan,’ the department said. 

‘According to medical records, both individuals had significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration. No additional information will be provided on these two cases.’

Officials also added that cyclosporiasis ‘is generally not a life-threatening illness. Death resulting from cyclosporiasis is uncommon in the United States.’

The announcement comes as an outbreak of cyclospora has ravaged 45 states, with Michigan at its epicenter. 

As of Monday, there have been 11,234 cases of cyclosporiasis reported in Michigan alone, nearly triple the tally in the next hardest hit state, Ohio, which has reported 4,013 cases. 

A total of 193 people in Michigan have been hospitalized as of July 30.  

Nationwide, 18,000 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These include 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases and another 11,500 probable cases. 

However, national figures tend to lag behind local health authorities, so the true toll is likely higher.