The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has identified a sharp rise in cyclospora infections among travellers returning from Mexico. The parasite, commonly found in contaminated food, causes explosive diarrhoea and other severe symptoms.
Between 30 April and 15 July 2026, 67 cases were reported in England (30), Wales (10), and Scotland (27). This is a significant increase compared to the annual average of 93 cases recorded between 2022 and 2025. Most cases were linked to travel to Mexico, particularly the Riviera Maya and Cancún regions, with one case also involving travel to the USA, one to the USA only, and one to Kenya.
Symptoms and Advice
Symptoms include frequent watery diarrhoea, abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, flatulence, low-grade fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss. While usually mild and self-limiting, infections can be more serious in immunocompromised individuals. The UKHSA advises travellers to follow good food and water hygiene, such as drinking bottled water, eating thoroughly cooked food, and avoiding fresh uncooked berries, herbs, unpeeled fruit, and salad items.
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 urged travellers to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms after returning and inform healthcare professionals of their travel history.
Ongoing Investigations
UKHSA is liaising with ABTA and Mexican public health authorities to investigate the rise. The agency anticipates further cases due to increased summer travel to Mexico and a potential link to a widespread outbreak in the USA.
