LONDON: The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a public health warning after reporting a sharp rise in UK Cyclospora infections among travellers returning from Mexico, urging holidaymakers to follow strict food and water hygiene precautions while abroad.

According to the agency, 67 cases of Cyclospora infection were recorded across England, Wales, and Scotland between April 30 and July 15, compared with an annual average of 93 cases recorded over an entire year between 2022 and 2025.

Most Cases Linked to Travel to Mexico

Health officials said travel information was available for 52 of the 67 patients, with 48 travellers having recently visited Mexico.

Among the remaining cases, one traveller visited both Mexico and the United States, one had travelled only to the United States, and another had returned from Kenya.

Investigators found that many of the affected travellers had stayed at hotels in Riviera Maya and Cancún, where they consumed food and beverages as part of all-inclusive holiday packages.

Outbreak Coincides With US Surge

The increase in UK Cyclospora infections comes as the United States continues to battle one of its largest recorded outbreaks of the parasite.

Health authorities in Michigan alone have reported more than 10,000 cases, while US investigators are examining fresh produce imported from central Mexico as a possible source of contamination.

Symptoms of Cyclospora Infection

The Cyclospora parasite primarily spreads through contaminated food or water and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.

According to UKHSA, infected individuals may experience:

• Watery diarrhoea
• Severe stomach cramps
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Mild fever

Health experts say contaminated fresh herbs, leafy salads, berries, and other soft fruits are among the most common sources of infection.

Health Advice for Travellers

The UK Health Security Agency expects additional travel-related Cyclospora cases during the busy summer holiday season as more British tourists visit Mexico.

The agency also warned that infections associated with travel to the United States could increase.

To reduce the risk of illness, UKHSA recommends that travellers:

• Drink sealed bottled water.
• Eat only thoroughly cooked food.
• Avoid uncooked berries, fresh herbs, salads, and unpeeled fruits.
• Maintain proper hand hygiene before eating.

Health officials advised anyone who develops persistent gastrointestinal symptoms after returning from overseas to seek medical attention promptly.