Michigan reports first two U.S. deaths linked to Cyclospora outbreak

Michigan health officials said two people have died in a Cyclospora outbreak, marking the first U.S. deaths confirmed in connection with the parasite. The state said both patients had underlying health conditions that may have worsened the effects of the intestinal illness and dehydration. Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can cause watery diarrhea and is usually spread through contaminated food or water. The CDC says cases are more common in late spring and summer, and the illness is rarely fatal. Federal health officials have linked part of the current outbreak to lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in nine states. The CDC says the wider investigation is still ongoing and other food or distribution sources may also be involved.