UK Health Agency Reports Sharp Rise in Cyclospora Infections Among Travelers Returning from Mexico

The UK Health Security Agency reports a sharp rise in cyclospora infections among travelers returning from Mexico, with 67 cases recorded between April 30 and July 15, 2026. Most affected individuals stayed at all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Maya and Cancun. This increase coincides with a major US outbreak of over 10,000 cases in Michigan, where authorities are investigating produce from central Mexico. UK health officials advise travelers to practice strict food and water hygiene.

Cyclospora infections among UK travelers

• ▪The 67 cyclospora cases reported in the UK between April 30, 2026, and July 15, 2026, compare to an annual average of 93 cases between 2022 and 2025.
• ▪The UK Health Security Agency reported a sharp rise in cyclospora infections among travelers returning from Mexico on July 30, 2026.
• ▪The UK Health Security Agency recorded 67 cyclospora cases in England, Wales, and Scotland between April 30, 2026, and July 15, 2026.

Mexico travel outbreak link

• ▪UK travelers infected with cyclospora reported staying at various hotels in Riviera Maya and Cancun, consuming food and drinks from all-inclusive packages.
• ▪Among 52 UK cyclospora cases with available travel history, 48 individuals had traveled to Mexico.

US cyclospora outbreak connection

• ▪The rise in UK cyclospora cases coincides with a US outbreak where Michigan has recorded over 10,000 infections.
• ▪United States health authorities are investigating produce from central Mexico as a potential source of the US cyclospora outbreak.

Cyclospora infection symptoms

• ▪Symptoms of cyclospora infection include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and mild fever.
• ▪Cyclospora is a parasite that causes stomach illness and does not spread from person to person.

Food contamination sources

• ▪Contaminated herbs, salad items, and soft fruits are common sources of cyclospora infection.
• ▪Cyclospora is a parasite that causes stomach illness primarily through contaminated food.

UKHSA traveler safety guidance

• ▪The UK Health Security Agency expects travel-related cyclospora cases to rise as summer travel to Mexico increases.
• ▪The UK Health Security Agency advised travelers to Mexico to drink bottled water, eat thoroughly cooked food, and avoid uncooked berries, fresh herbs, unpeeled fruit, and salads.

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