A steady annual increase in the number of UK travellers contracting the parasitic infection Cyclospora in Mexico has their public health authorities advising the need for suitable precautions. As stated by Travelhealthpro, the infections is usually ‘acquired from food or water contaminated by human faeces’. Advice is to ‘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’ and ‘avoid fresh uncooked berries/unpeeled fruit and salads that have not been washed in safe water’. The authorities have also recorded recent Cyclospora infections in travellers to the Dominican Republic and Indonesia, however the risk exists in all tropical regions. Read more
Advice for travellers
A single-celled coccidian parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis may be a risk for travellers to tropical regions where it is found. The microscopic parasite causes watery diarrhoea, nausea, anorexia, abdominal cramps, weight loss and, occasionally, fever that can last for several days – and reoccur - if not treated effectively. Most cases result from consuming food or water containing the parasite, or swallowing contaminated water while swimming. Fruits and vegetables such as raspberries, basil and lettuce washed with contaminated water are common culprits, especially those imported from developing nations. Read more about Cyclospora.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.