British tourists visiting Mexico have been advised to take precautions following a rise in cases of cyclospora, a parasitic infection that causes symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, and fever. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that many of these cases have been linked to popular holiday destinations in the Riviera Maya and Cancun regions.

Between April and July, 67 cases of cyclospora were confirmed among people returning to the UK, slightly lower than the annual average of 93 cases recorded between 2022 and 2025. Among 52 cases where travel history was documented, 48 had visited Mexico, one had also traveled to the United States, one had traveled only within the US, and another had visited Kenya.

Cyclospora infections typically occur through consumption of contaminated food and water, particularly items such as salads, soft fruit, and herbs. Dr. Philip Veal, a consultant in travel health at UKHSA, emphasized that although most cases resolve without treatment, some may require antibiotics due to the severity of symptoms. He advised travelers to adhere to strict food and water hygiene standards, including drinking bottled water, eating thoroughly cooked meals, and avoiding certain fresh produce such as uncooked berries, unpeeled fruit, herbs, and salads—even when staying at high-end all-inclusive resorts.

The parasite cyclospora is not present in the UK but is known to be endemic in various regions around the world, including Central and South America, South and South-east Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Meanwhile, the United States is facing a significant cyclospora outbreak that has affected 45 states, with more than 18,000 reported cases. The Midwest, especially Michigan, has been among the hardest hit areas.

Health officials urge individuals who develop gastrointestinal symptoms after traveling to at-risk areas to seek medical care promptly and inform healthcare providers about their recent travel. This helps ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment, and supports public health monitoring of the infection’s spread.