Two deaths linked to Cyclosporiasis in Michigan

(NBC, KYMA) - Michigan is now reporting the first two deaths here in the U.S. related to the parasite that causes severe stomach illness.

As the CDC and FDA continue to investigate the multi-state outbreak of the parasite, they've linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce.

Michigan's Health Department writing that both of the deceased "had significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration."

The FDA adding both individuals got sick before Taylor Farms' voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce grown in Mexico on July 17.

Cyclospora causes severe stomach illness, but is rarely deadly, according to health experts.

"In the majority of instances, it just makes you miserable for a period of time," said Dr. Schaffner, Professor of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt Health.

So far this summer, there have been more than 6,700 lab-confirmed cases of Cyclosporiasis by the CDC.

The agency also saying it's aware of an additional 11,500 unconfirmed cases.