Since 2015, an increase in Cyclospora cases in travellers returning from Mexico has been reported every year.

Reports of Cyclospora infections in United Kingdom (UK) travellers are being monitored by Public Health England, in collaboration with Health Protection Scotland, Public Health Wales and the Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland. As of 4 June 2019, a total of nine Cyclospora cases in returning travellers have been reported in England. Travel destinations reported include the Dominican Republic, Indonesia and Mexico.

Cyclospora is a food and water transmitted parasite. Infection may be mild, symptoms can include:

Diarrhoea/fever/fatigue and muscle pain/appetite loss/weight loss/cramping/wind/bloating/nausea

 

HIV positive people and individuals who are immunosuppressed may have particularly severe, prolonged symptoms.

Infection is commonly acquired from food or water contaminated by human faeces. There is no evidence of transmission from animals. Oocysts (a hardy form in the lifecycle of this parasite) are not infectious for around 10 days after they are passed in faeces, so person-to-person transmission does not occur. Foods involved are usually soft fruits like raspberries or salad products like coriander, basil and lettuce.

Cyclospora is common in tropical regions and most UK cases are associated with travel abroad, most commonly to South and Central America and South and South East Asia.

Advice for travellers

 

Cyclospora is spread by consuming food or drink contaminated with human faeces containing Cyclospora. You should ensure that you maintain good food and water hygiene at all times when abroad even if staying in high-end, all-inclusive resorts.

Choose recently prepared, thoroughly cooked food that is served piping hot.

Avoid fresh uncooked berries/unpeeled fruit and salads that have not been washed in safe water.

 

Global Health Travel Clinics can provide information should any symptoms appear.

For more details visit Travel health Pro part of NaTHNaC, the National Travel Health Network & Centre, a UK government organisation which produces travel health guidance for healthcare professionals advising travellers and for travellers going overseas from the UK

https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/news/425/cyclospora-summer-travel-reminder