UK Cyclospora Cases Rise Among Travellers
Dozens of infections reported, with a strong link to travel in Mexico, prompting health warnings.
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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recorded 67 instances of cyclospora infection since April 2026, with a significant number of those affected being travellers returning from Mexico. The parasite, which contaminates food items such as salads, herbs, and soft fruits, does not occur naturally in the UK and cannot spread between people, according to the agency.
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Between 30 April and 15 July 2026, the UKHSA reported 30 cases in England, 27 in Scotland, and 10 in Wales. Of the 52 cases where travel details were available, 48 individuals had journeyed to Mexico. Many of these travellers stayed in the Riviera Maya region or in Cancún, the UKHSA stated. Those affected often reported staying in various hotels and consuming a range of food and drink as part of all-inclusive holiday packages.
Symptoms and Prevention Advice
Cyclospora infection can lead to severe stomach issues, including frequent, watery diarrhoea. Nick Palmiter, a 29-year-old from Michigan, described experiencing constant pressure and bubbling, likening the sensation to having a balloon inside his stomach, as reported by the BBC. While most infections resolve without intervention, medical treatment is available for severe or prolonged cases. The UKHSA anticipates an increase in cases due to heightened summer travel to Mexico and potentially the US.
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To mitigate the risk of infection, the UKHSA advises travellers to adhere to strict food and water hygiene practices. This includes drinking only bottled water and consuming food that has been thoroughly cooked, even when staying at high-end resorts. Experts also recommend avoiding certain raw foods such as berries, herbs, unpeeled fruits, and salad items.
Dr Philip Veal of the UKHSA urged individuals experiencing symptoms like watery diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, increased wind, nausea, or fatigue after returning from travel to seek medical attention. He stressed the importance of informing healthcare professionals about their travel history.
Questions this report answers
+How many cyclospora cases have been reported in the UK?
The UK Health Security Agency has recorded 67 cases of cyclospora infection since April 2026. This marks a rise in reported cases, prompting health warnings for travellers returning from affected areas.
+Which countries are linked to the cyclospora infections?
Most infections are strongly linked to travel in Mexico, particularly the Riviera Maya and Cancún regions. Of 52 travellers with known destinations, 48 had visited Mexico, indicating a clear travel-related pattern.
+What foods should travellers avoid to prevent cyclospora?
Travellers are advised to avoid raw foods like berries, herbs, unpeeled fruits, and salads. The parasite contaminates these items, so thoroughly cooked food and bottled water are recommended to reduce risk.
+What symptoms should prompt someone to see a doctor after travel?
Seek medical attention if you experience watery diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, increased wind, nausea, or fatigue after returning from travel. Informing doctors about your travel history is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Barnet Press News Desk
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