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

Michigan health officials have confirmed the first two deaths linked to the ongoing cyclospora outbreak, a parasitic infection spread through contaminated food or water that can cause severe diarrhoea.The two individuals had "significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration", state health authorities said.The foodborne illness has spread to 45 states, with nearly 7,000 laboratory-confirmed cases reported nationwide, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).While the outbreak has infected thousands of people, the CDC says deaths from cyclosporiasis are far from common, as it is "not usually life-threatening". Michigan's health department did not provide further details about those who have died. The state is at the epicentre of the current outbreak and its records show more than 11,000 cases and 193 hospitalisations, although many have not been laboratory-confirmed.The heat-loving parasite infects the intestines and is transmitted through faecal contamination. Past outbreaks have occurred when people consumed fruits or vegetables irrigated with water contaminated by faeces.