An increase in reported Cyclospora cases has been observed in the United States, though surveillance figures require careful interpretation, according to Dr Brian Rice, an Infectious Disease Epidemiologist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Sheffield.
Cyclosporiasis is contracted through consuming food or water contaminated with Cyclospora parasites, not via typical person-to-person contact. Dr Rice advises travellers to practice sensible food and water hygiene as a precaution.
A current US investigation has indicated a possible link to iceberg lettuce sourced from Mexico. However, this finding should not be interpreted as meaning that Mexican food or travel to Mexico is generally unsafe, provided good hygiene practices are followed.
Dr Rice emphasised that the key message for British travellers is not to avoid travel, but to be aware of potential infections and take appropriate precautions. Anyone developing persistent or recurrent watery diarrhoea during or after travel should mention their travel history to their healthcare provider, as specific testing may be necessary for Cyclospora, which can cause prolonged illness.