The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning to Scottish travellers heading to Mexico this summer after detecting a sharp increase in cyclospora infections. The parasite can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including explosive diarrhoea.
Rise in Cases
Latest statistics from UKHSA show 67 cases documented among travellers returning to Great Britain between April 30 and July 15 this year. Of these, 30 were in England, 27 in Scotland, and 10 in Wales. Travel details were obtained for 52 individuals: 48 had recently visited Mexico, with one also travelling to the United States. One person had only visited the US, and another had been to Kenya.
Those returning from Mexico had stayed at various hotels in the Riviera Maya and Cancún areas on all-inclusive breaks and consumed a range of food and beverages. Investigations into the source are ongoing.
Health Advice
Health officials advise anyone visiting Mexico to follow strict food and water hygiene measures, even at upmarket all-inclusive resorts. This includes drinking bottled water and eating thoroughly cooked food. Fresh uncooked berries, herbs, unpeeled fruit, and salad items should be avoided.
Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Travel Health at UKHSA, said: “We have recently detected a rise in Cyclospora infections among travellers returning from Mexico. These infections are caused by a parasite and can affect the stomach and intestines.” He added: “Travellers to Mexico and other areas where the infection is more common can reduce their risk by following good food and water hygiene measures.”
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms include frequent watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, excessive wind, low-grade fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Most people recover within days without medical intervention, but those with compromised immune systems may require antibiotics.
UKHSA anticipates further cases as more Britons travel during the summer. Officials are also monitoring a broader outbreak associated with travel in the US. The agency is working with ABTA, Mexican health authorities, and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) to provide updated guidance.
