First US deaths in cyclosporiasis outbreak recorded in Michigan

Cases of the intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite have been rising steadily across the United States in recent weeks, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, nausea and other gastrointestinal issues.

Nationwide, the CDC has recorded 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis as of July 28, with more than 11,500 additional suspected cases still awaiting confirmation or further investigation.

The CDC surveillance updates include only laboratory-confirmed cases, while state health departments may also report probable infections, resulting in higher case counts. The agency has said it is working with states to update the national tally as additional cases are confirmed.

Former CDC officials and food safety experts have said cuts across federal health agencies have complicated the government's ability to respond to foodborne disease outbreaks.