The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported both individuals had “significant underlying health conditions” that were likely impacted by cyclosporiasis infection and dehydration.
The FDA notes the number of confirmed cases is expected to rise, despite a recall initiated by Taylor Farms, since it can take as long as six weeks for the CDC and state officials to determine if a sick person is part of the outbreak.
The FDA originally had identified Taylor Farms de Mexico as the Taco Bell shredded iceberg lettuce supplier connected to the parasite outbreak that has sickened hundreds across the country.
FoodNet, which is a collaboration between the CDC, USDA FSIS, FDA and 10 state health departments, previously tracked infections caused by eight pathogens. As of July, monitoring is required for only two pathogens.
Bedner Growers, Inc., of Boynton Beach, Fla., and Thomas Produce Company, of Boca Raton, Fla., are the likely sources of this outbreak, however these growers do not account for all the illnesses in the outbreak.