India, Aug. 4 -- Two people in Michigan have died in connection with the multistate Cyclospora outbreak. These are the first known deaths linked to the foodborne illness in the United States. Michigan health officials on Monday said both individuals had significant underlying medical conditions, and dehydration caused by the infection may have contributed to their deaths.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed it is aware of the two Cyclospora-related deaths. The parasite has sickened thousands this year, with Michigan reporting 11,234 cases, including 193 hospitalizations.

Nationwide, more than 18,000 cases have been identified or are under investigation this season.

Health officials believe that contaminated s...