US reports first two deaths linked to 'explosive diarrhoea' outbreak

Michigan health officials have reported the first two fatalities associated with an ongoing cyclospora outbreak affecting the United States, though both victims had serious pre-existing medical conditions. The parasitic infection, which spreads through contaminated food or water and causes severe intestinal illness, has reached 45 states with approximately 7,000 confirmed cases nationwide. Authorities have traced the outbreak to contaminated lettuce imported from Taylor Farms' Mexican operations, prompting voluntary recalls and menu changes at restaurants like Taco Bell.