Travel Alert Issued: 48 Tourists Contract Stomach Parasite at Cancun Luxury Resorts

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A new health warning has been issued for international travelers heading to the Mexican Caribbean this summer.

The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported a sharp increase in Cyclospora infections among tourists returning from vacations in Cancun and the Riviera Maya.

If you are planning a trip to a luxury all-inclusive resort in Quintana Roo, here is what you need to know about the outbreak, the symptoms, and how to protect your health while enjoying your vacation.

The UK Health Alert: What the Data Shows

According to data published by the UKHSA, 67 cases of cyclosporiasis were recorded across England, Wales, and Scotland between April 30 and July 15, 2026. This marks a significant spike compared to the annual average of 93 cases the agency recorded between 2022 and 2025.

Of the 52 cases where detailed travel history was available, 48 patients specifically reported traveling to Mexico.

Travelling to Mexico this summer? We've seen a sharp rise in cyclospora infections linked to the destination.

The tiny parasite is picked up through contaminated food, even at high-end all-inclusive resorts and causes explosive diarrhoea. pic.twitter.com/dPIRLJdYxC

— UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) July 30, 2026

Health officials noted that many of the infected travelers stayed at various all-inclusive luxury hotels across the Cancun and Riviera Maya regions. These tourists reported consuming a variety of food and drinks within their resorts as part of their holiday packages.

Because Cyclospora does not naturally occur in the UK, the agency is actively liaising with Mexican public health authorities and the travel association ABTA to investigate the source of the outbreak.

What is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite endemic to many tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Mexico. It causes an intestinal infection known as cyclosporiasis.

Unlike a standard 24-hour stomach bug, this parasite is primarily transmitted when people consume fresh, raw produce or water that has been contaminated. The foods most commonly linked to Cyclospora outbreaks include:

• Fresh herbs (like cilantro and basil)
• Leafy green salads and unpeeled fruits
• Soft fruits and fresh berries

It is important to note that the infection cannot be spread directly from person to person.

Symptoms to Watch For

The hallmark symptom of cyclosporiasis is frequent, watery, and often “explosive” diarrhea. Other common symptoms include:

• Severe abdominal cramping and bloating
• Loss of appetite and sudden weight loss
• Nausea and flatulence (excess wind)
• Low-grade fever and profound fatigue

While the infection is usually mild and can resolve on its own for some, it can be severe or prolonged—especially for immunocompromised individuals—and typically requires a specific prescription antibiotic to clear the parasite fully.

The Outbreak Extends Beyond Mexico

The UKHSA warning also highlighted that this is not an isolated issue limited to the Mexican Caribbean.

The agency anticipates a continued rise in cases not only from summer travel to Mexico but also from travel to the United States.

Currently, the U.S. is managing its own widespread Cyclospora outbreak. As of July 2026, a multistate outbreak in the U.S. has been officially connected to shredded iceberg lettuce sourced from farms in central Mexico.

How to Protect Yourself at Your Resort

Dr. Philip Veal, a Consultant in Travel Health at the UKHSA, emphasized that tourists can significantly reduce their risk of infection by practicing stringent food and water hygiene, even when staying inside five-star, high-end resorts.

To protect your stomach during your Cancun vacation, follow these expert guidelines:

• Stick to Bottled Water: Only drink purified, bottled water. Avoid drinking from the tap, and ensure you use bottled water when brushing your teeth.
• Be Cautious With Ice: Ensure the ice in your cocktails is made from commercially filtered water, or avoid ice in drinks entirely if unsure.
• Avoid Raw Produce: Until the outbreak subsides, experts recommend avoiding raw salads, fresh herbs, and unpeeled fruits. Choose fruits that you can peel yourself, such as bananas or oranges.
• Eat Cooked Foods: Opt for meals that have been thoroughly cooked and served piping hot.

If you develop severe gastrointestinal symptoms during your trip or after returning home, seek medical attention immediately and make sure to inform your healthcare provider of your recent travel history.