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First Deaths Reported in Cyclosporiasis Outbreak, State Health Department Says
Health officials have confirmed the first deaths linked to an ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak, marking a serious development in an illness that has affected hundreds of people in recent weeks.
According to the state’s health department, the fatalities occurred among individuals who tested positive for Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis. Officials are continuing to investigate the cases to determine whether underlying health conditions or other contributing factors played a role in the deaths.
Cyclosporiasis is a foodborne illness that spreads through the consumption of food or water contaminated with the parasite. Fresh produce—including leafy greens, herbs, berries, and vegetables—has been linked to previous outbreaks. Unlike many other foodborne illnesses, Cyclospora is not typically transmitted directly from one person to another.
Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure and may include prolonged watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and low-grade fever. Without treatment, symptoms can persist for several weeks or even recur after initially improving.