{"id":1032,"date":"2026-07-30T12:46:35","date_gmt":"2026-07-30T12:46:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/holidaymakers-warned-about-explosive-diarrhoea-cyclospora-parasite-infection\/"},"modified":"2026-07-30T12:46:35","modified_gmt":"2026-07-30T12:46:35","slug":"holidaymakers-warned-about-explosive-diarrhoea-cyclospora-parasite-infection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/holidaymakers-warned-about-explosive-diarrhoea-cyclospora-parasite-infection\/","title":{"rendered":"Holidaymakers warned about ‘explosive diarrhoea’ cyclospora parasite infection"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Holidaymakers<\/figure>\n
\"Holidaymakers<\/figure>\n
\"Holidaymakers<\/figure>\n

UK holidaymakers are being warned about a nasty infectious disease called cyclosporiasis that can cause explosive diarrhoea, after a sharp rise in cases.<\/p>\n

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said 67 cases have been reported since April, with many of them among travellers returning from Mexico. It comes amid an outbreak in the US that has infected more than 18,000 people across 45 states. The source hasn’t been identified yet and there have been no reported deaths.<\/p>\n

The illness is caused by a parasite, cyclospora, that can contaminate food like salads, herbs and soft fruits. It doesn’t naturally occur in the UK and there is no risk of spread from person to person, experts stress.<\/p>\n

Between 30 April and 15 July 2026, 30 cases have been reported in England, 27 in Scotland and 10 in Wales, according to the UKHSA. Of the 52 cases with travel information available, 48 reported having travelled to Mexico, with many saying they had stayed in either the white sand beach resort area of Riviera Maya, or slightly north of there in coastal Canc\u00fan.<\/p>\n

The UKHSA said those affected reported staying in “a range of different hotels and consuming a variety of different food and drink within their resort as part of an all-inclusive holiday package”. There are ongoing investigations and monitoring of the situation.<\/p>\n

What is cyclospora and how does it spread?<\/h2>\n

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal infection known as cyclosporiasis. It is typically spread when people ingest food or water contaminated with the parasite. Unlike many other foodborne illnesses, cyclospora does not spread directly from person to person, which means the risk is primarily through contaminated food or water sources.<\/p>\n

The parasite is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Southeast Asia. In recent years, outbreaks have also been linked to imported fresh produce in Europe and North America.<\/p>\n

Common sources of contamination<\/h3>\n

Fresh produce is the most common vehicle for cyclospora transmission. Foods that are often implicated include:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Salad greens and leafy vegetables<\/li>\n
  • Fresh herbs like cilantro and basil<\/li>\n
  • Soft fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries<\/li>\n
  • Unpeeled fruits and vegetables<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    The parasite can survive on produce for weeks, especially if it is kept moist. Washing fruits and vegetables may not fully remove the parasite, so cooking food thoroughly is the most effective way to kill it.<\/p>\n

    Symptoms of cyclosporiasis<\/h2>\n

    The main symptom of cyclosporiasis is watery diarrhoea that can be frequent and explosive. Some people describe having to use the toilet up to 20 times a day. The incubation period is typically about one week after ingesting the parasite, but it can range from two to 14 days.<\/p>\n

    Other common symptoms include:<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Loss of appetite and weight loss<\/li>\n
    • Stomach cramps or pain<\/li>\n
    • Bloating and increased wind<\/li>\n
    • Nausea<\/li>\n
    • Fatigue and flu-like symptoms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Nick Palmiter, who is 29 and from Monroe County in Michigan, told the BBC he experienced feeling constant pressure and bubbling, “almost like you have a balloon in your stomach”.<\/p>\n

      Although most cases resolve on their own, antibiotics can be given to treat severe or prolonged infections. The UKHSA said it anticipates there will be more cases linked to increased summer travel to Mexico and possibly the US too.<\/p>\n

      Who is at risk?<\/h2>\n

      Anyone can get cyclosporiasis, but travellers to endemic areas are at higher risk. The current outbreak in the US and UK highlights the global nature of foodborne illness. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV\/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, may experience more severe symptoms.<\/p>\n

      Children and older adults are also more vulnerable to dehydration from diarrhoea, so it’s important to monitor symptoms closely and seek medical help if needed.<\/p>\n

      Travel advice for holidaymakers<\/h3>\n

      People can protect themselves while away by following good food and water hygiene measures, including drinking bottled water and eating thoroughly cooked food, even when staying in high-end all-inclusive resorts. Experts also advise people avoid certain foods such as fresh uncooked berries and herbs, unpeeled fruit and salad items.<\/p>\n

      Dr Philip Veal from the agency said: “If you develop symptoms after returning from travel, such as watery diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, bloating, increased wind, nausea, fatigue or other flu-like symptoms, please seek medical attention and inform your healthcare professional of your travel history.”<\/p>\n

      Treatment and recovery<\/h2>\n

      Most people with cyclosporiasis recover without treatment within a few days to a week. However, the diarrhoea can be severe and prolonged, leading to dehydration. Over-the-counter rehydration solutions can help replace lost fluids and electrolytes.<\/p>\n

      For severe cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve. People who are allergic to sulfa drugs should inform their doctor, as alternative treatments may be needed.<\/p>\n

      When to see a doctor<\/h3>\n

      Seek medical attention if you experience:<\/p>\n

        \n
      • Severe or bloody diarrhoea<\/li>\n
      • Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urination, dizziness)<\/li>\n
      • Fever over 38.5\u00b0C (101.3\u00b0F)<\/li>\n
      • Inability to keep fluids down<\/li>\n
      • Symptoms lasting more than a week<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Always inform your healthcare provider about recent travel, as this can help them diagnose cyclosporiasis more quickly.<\/p>\n

        Prevention tips for travellers<\/h2>\n

        To reduce your risk of cyclosporiasis while travelling, follow these practical steps:<\/p>\n

          \n
        • Drink only bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice cubes made from tap water<\/li>\n
        • Eat foods that are thoroughly cooked and served hot<\/li>\n
        • Avoid raw or undercooked meat, seafood, and eggs<\/li>\n
        • Skip fresh salads, uncooked vegetables, and unpeeled fruits<\/li>\n
        • Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially before eating<\/li>\n
        • Use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          These precautions are especially important in areas where cyclospora is known to occur, such as Mexico and other tropical destinations.<\/p>\n

          What to do if you get sick after returning<\/h3>\n

          If you develop symptoms after returning from a trip, contact your GP or NHS 111. Mention your travel history, as this will help them consider cyclosporiasis as a possible cause. The UKHSA is monitoring the situation and may ask for stool samples to confirm the diagnosis.<\/p>\n

          Most people recover fully, but it’s important to stay hydrated and rest. Avoid preparing food for others while you are symptomatic to prevent any accidental contamination, even though person-to-person spread is rare.<\/p>\n

          Global context: The US outbreak<\/h2>\n

          The current UK warning comes amid a much larger outbreak in the United States, where more than 18,000 people across 45 states have been infected. The source of the US outbreak has not yet been identified, but investigations are ongoing. No deaths have been reported so far.<\/p>\n

          The US outbreak has raised awareness about cyclospora and its potential to cause widespread illness. The UKHSA is working with international partners to track the outbreak and identify any common food sources that may be linked to cases in the UK.<\/p>\n

          Given the popularity of Mexico as a holiday destination for British travellers, the UKHSA expects more cases to emerge as summer travel peaks. The agency advises anyone planning a trip to Mexico to take extra precautions with food and water hygiene.<\/p>\n

          Final thoughts<\/h2>\n

          Cyclosporiasis is an unpleasant but preventable illness. By following simple food and water safety measures, holidaymakers can significantly reduce their risk of infection. If you do get sick, seek medical advice promptly and mention your travel history to ensure appropriate care.<\/p>\n

          Stay informed about travel health advisories and check the UKHSA website for updates on outbreaks. With a little extra care, you can enjoy your holiday without the worry of explosive diarrhoea ruining your trip.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

          UK holidaymakers are being warned about a nasty infectious disease called cyclosporiasis that can cause explosive diarrhoea, after a sharp rise in cases. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said 67 cases have been reported since April, with many of them among travellers returning from Mexico. It comes amid an outbreak in the US that…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1029,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1032","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1032","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1032"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1032\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1029"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1032"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1032"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myhealtho.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1032"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}