First deaths from the 'explosive diarrhoea' infection as cyclosporiasis outbreak spreads
Fatalities have now been recorded in association with the ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak.
Two residents of Michigan have died after contracting the food-borne illness, which has inflicted bouts of 'explosive diarrhoea' across several countries.
Caused by the parasite Cyclospora, the infection can't be spread from person to person and can only be transmitted through contaminated foods, such as uncooked salads, herbs, and fruits.
Amongst the numerous symptoms of infection are frequent watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, bloating, loss of appetite and extreme tiredness.
Advert
According to the Cleveland Clinic, other symptoms may include loss of appetite, bloating with burping and farting, extreme tiredness (fatigue), low-grade fever, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting.
Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services have since confirmed that the two fatalities, neither of whom have yet been identified, had 'significant underlying health conditions'.
Between the start of May and the end of July, over 6,500 lab-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis were recorded, with Michigan being the most affected state. Over 18,000 people have been infected across 45 states.
In the US, the epidemic is believed by the Food and Drug Administration to have stemmed from a contaminated batch of iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, which manufactured salad served in both supermarkets and restaurant chains, including Taco Bell.
The fast-food chain previously confirmed that lettuce would be removed from its menu following a discussion with health officials, a spokesperson for the chain told the BBC, adding that bosses 'believe public health is a shared responsibility among restaurants, their suppliers, and authorities'.
A representative of Taco Bell Corp. also told Fox News in a statement: "The health and safety of our guests is our top priority. Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer.
"While authorities continue their broader review, Taco Bell has voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precautionary measure. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and follow the guidance of public health authorities."
Taylor Farms previously claimed the FDA hadn't yet identified a single positive product test result for cyclospora, while Mexico's health minister has reportedly disputed claims that the outbreak originated at a lettuce farm in the country.
In light of the outbreak, Brits travelling to the States and Mexico over the summer were warned to approach fresh salad with severe caution.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have recorded 67 cases since April - 30 in England, 27 in Scotland and 10 in Wales - many involving cases of travellers returning from Mexico. Several had stayed in the area of Riviera Maya or Cancún.
Holidaymakers are being warned to take heed of protecting food and hygiene measures, including by considering solely bottled water and eating food that has been thoroughly cooked.
Topics: Health, Food and Drink, Real Life, US News, News
Rhianna Benson