Michigan Confirms Two Deaths in Massive Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

You know those stomach bug stories that seem to be everywhere lately? This one just took a much more serious turn right here in Michigan.

Michigan Confirms Two Deaths From Cyclosporiasis

State health officials have now confirmed that two Michiganders have died after contracting cyclosporiasis, the parasite that's been making thousands of people sick across the state.

READ MORE: Durand Couple Sues Taco Bell After Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

Before you panic, doctors are stressing that the parasite itself is rarely deadly. Both people who died had severe underlying health conditions, and dehydration from the illness became a contributing factor.

Michigan Outbreak Surpasses 11,000 Cases

Mario Tama & Benjamin Fanjoy/Getty Images/Canva

Still, the numbers are hard to ignore. Audacy is now reporting that Michigan has now topped 11,000 confirmed cases, with 193 people hospitalized, making this one of the largest outbreaks we've seen.

Get our free mobile app

Health officials and the CDC continue to point the finger at contaminated iceberg lettuce, particularly products connected to Taylor Farms, although investigators are still working to determine exactly how widespread the contamination may be. There have also been illnesses connected to Taco Bell locations in several states, including Michigan.

Symptoms Michigan Residents Should Watch For

The biggest thing to watch for is sudden, frequent watery diarrhea. If that happens, don't just assume it's a 24-hour stomach bug. Doctors say it's worth calling your healthcare provider because there is treatment available.

How to Protect Yourself From Cyclosporiasis

If you're buying lettuce right now, health experts say you're better off buying a whole head of lettuce instead of bagged lettuce, removing the outer leaves, and washing all produce thoroughly before eating it.

READ MORE: Genesee County Restaurants Remove Lettuce From Menus Due to Outbreak

For most healthy people, this isn't expected to become life-threatening. But with more than 11,000 Michiganders already sick, it's definitely one of those situations where taking a few extra precautions at the grocery store is probably a smart move.