Why cyclospora can be deadly for some people

Michigan health officials reported two deaths associated with an ongoing cyclospora outbreak, the first fatalities linked to the event, and said both individuals had significant underlying health conditions. The cases became ill before a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce. Officials stressed that cyclosporiasis is generally not life-threatening, and deaths are uncommon in the U.S. The illness can range from asymptomatic infection to acute or prolonged recurrent disease. Dr. Miguel Cabada of the University of Texas Medical Branch said symptomatic patients most often report fatigue, weight loss, and watery diarrhea, sometimes exceeding 15 bowel movements a day. Higher severity can affect young children, pregnant women, and elderly people, especially those with weakened immune systems.