(WXYZ) — The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said two people have died in the state amid the cyclosporiasis outbreak, and the number of people with confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis has climbed to more than 11,000 as of Monday morning.
The total number of confirmed cases is now at 11,234.
Regarding the deaths, MDHHS released this statement:
"Two deaths have been identified as part of the cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting Michigan. 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.
Cyclosporiasis is generally not a life-threatening illness. Death resulting from cyclosporiasis is uncommon in the United States."
Related: Michigan cyclosporiasis outbreak likely largest in US history, health officials say
MDHHS also reported that 193 people have been hospitalized with symptoms from cyclosporiasis as of July 30.
Related Story: Michigan cyclosporiasis outbreak tops 6,000 cases as sales decline at local produce markets
State health officials have released recommendations for cyclosporiasis, saying that early results indicate that lettuce or salad greens may be the possible source. According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, no specific type of produce, grower or supplier has been identified as the source, and other food items cannot be completely ruled out.
Below are the recent recommendations from the MDHHS:
Focus on lettuce and salad greens
- Purchase whole heads: Buy whole heads of lettuce rather than pre-washed, bagged lettuce or pre-mixed salad kits.
- Discard outer layers: Before preparation, throw away the outer two to three layers of leaves.
- Wash inner leaves: Thoroughly wash the remaining inner leaves under clean running water.
- Prioritize cooking: For any greens that can be cooked, cooking to a temperature of at least 158 F (70 C) is the safest option, as the parasite is resistant to routine chemical disinfection and washing alone cannot guarantee its removal.
Previous outbreaks
The following foods have been specifically linked to previous cyclospora outbreaks in the United States and Canada:
- Bagged salad mixes and kits.
- Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves).
- Fresh basil.
- Raspberries.
- Snow peas.
- Green onions (scallions).
General rules to reduce risk
- Cook when possible. Heating food to 158 F (70 C) or higher kills cyclospora.
- Peel produce. Peeling is highly effective for food items with removable skin as the parasite sits on the outer surface.
- Wash all fresh produce. Wash under clean running water, even if you plan to peel it. “Pre-washed” does not guarantee safety and rewashing bagged lettuce is unlikely to remove cyclospora. While washing alone may not fully eliminate cyclospora, it enhances protection when combined with cooking or peeling.
If you do become ill
People experiencing frequent, watery diarrhea are encouraged to contact their health care provider and specifically request testing for cyclospora as routine stool tests may miss the parasite. Cyclosporiasis is treated with antibiotics along with rest and drinking plenty of fluids to maintain hydration.
