Michigan reports first US deaths in cyclosporiasis outbreak
YUM•Federal response questions and national case totals
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.
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.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said it is aware of the deaths in Michigan.
"This development highlights the importance of identifying the source of the outbreak and preventing additional illnesses," said Wade Syers, a food safety specialist at Michigan State University Extension.
