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A concerning rise in cyclospora infections has prompted health officials in the UK to issue warnings to holidaymakers, particularly those returning from Mexico. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported 67 cases of cyclosporiasis since April 2026, with a significant number linked to travel in the popular coastal regions of Mexico, including Cancún and the Riviera Maya.
Understanding Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the cyclospora parasite, which primarily contaminates food items such as salads, herbs, and soft fruits. This parasite is not endemic to the UK, meaning there is no risk of person-to-person transmission, which experts have confirmed. The current outbreak in the United States has seen over 18,000 cases across 45 states, underscoring the potential scale of this health concern.
From April 30 to July 15, 2026, the UKHSA recorded 30 cases in England, 27 in Scotland, and 10 in Wales. Of the 52 cases with travel histories available, a staggering 48 individuals reported visiting Mexico, highlighting a clear correlation between travel to this region and subsequent infection.
Symptoms and Treatment
The primary symptom of cyclosporiasis is severe, watery diarrhoea, which can be so frequent that some individuals report needing to use the toilet up to 20 times a day. Other symptoms may include stomach cramps, bloating, loss of appetite, and fatigue. While many cases resolve independently, antibiotic treatment may be necessary for severe or prolonged infections.
Nick Palmiter, a Michigan resident who contracted the illness, described his experience as feeling “constant pressure” in his abdomen, likening it to having “a balloon in your stomach.” Such firsthand accounts illustrate the debilitating nature of this infection.
Prevention and Best Practices
In light of the current outbreak, the UKHSA advises holidaymakers to exercise caution while abroad. Simple but effective measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Travellers are encouraged to drink bottled water, eat thoroughly cooked foods, and avoid high-risk items such as fresh uncooked berries, unpeeled fruits, and salads. Even those staying at high-end all-inclusive resorts should remain vigilant about food hygiene practices.
Dr Philip Veal from the UKHSA emphasised the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms develop post-travel. Travellers should inform healthcare professionals about their recent journeys to assist in diagnosis and treatment.
Ongoing Investigations
The UKHSA is actively monitoring the situation and conducting investigations to understand the outbreak’s scope and origins better. With summer travel on the rise, officials anticipate that case numbers may increase, particularly among those returning from regions where cyclospora is prevalent.
Health authorities remain vigilant as they track the outbreak, working to identify the precise sources of infection and prevent further cases.
Why it Matters
The rise in cyclospora infections not only highlights the risks associated with international travel but also underscores the need for robust public health communication. As travel resumes post-pandemic, the health and safety of holidaymakers must remain a priority. Awareness and education about food hygiene can be crucial in preventing outbreaks, ultimately protecting public health and alleviating the burden on healthcare systems.
