Warning to Brits after sharp rise in 'explosive diarrhoea' parasite cases in UK
British holidaymakers are being warned to stay alert as many travellers returning to the UK are experiencing ‘explosive diarrhoea’ amid the US cyclosporiasis outbreak that has infected more than 18,000 people throughout 45 states.
Between 30 April and 15 July 2026, 30 cases of cyclosporiasis, a dire intestinal issue, spread through contaminated food or water, have been reported in England, the UK Health Security Agency has confirmed.
27 cases of the bug, which causes symptoms such as severe stomach cramps, extreme bloating, and gas, have been reported in Scotland.
In Wales, experts have stated that ten people have been suffering.
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The BBC reported that of the 52 cases with travel information available, almost all (48 out of 52) admitted that they had recently travelled to and from Mexico.
The UKHSA said in a notice that those affected stayed in 'a range of different hotels and consuming a variety of different food and drink within their resort as part of an all-inclusive holiday package'.
However, many said they had been based near Riviera Maya, or slightly north in Cancún.
Investigations into the outbreak in the Mexican tourist destinations are ongoing. Despite its severity, cyclosporiasis is not transmittable from person to person.
Instead, those travelling to and from Mexico in the next couple of months are advised to drink bottled water over tap, make sure food is piping hot before consumption, and to avoid certain fresh items, such as berries, herbs, and salad items, such as lettuce.
"If you develop symptoms after returning from travel, such as watery diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, bloating, increased wind, nausea, fatigue or other flu-like symptoms, please seek medical attention and inform your healthcare professional of your travel history,” Dr Philip Veal from the UKHSA advised.
How long does cyclosporiasis last?
Unfortunately, the parasitic infection can last from a few days to over a month if not treated with antibiotics, such as co-trimoxazole (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and fluid rehydration.
If you believe you’ve been impacted, you can seek out your healthcare provider, who can diagnose cyclosporiasis by testing a sample of your stool.
And what’s more, the time between becoming infected and becoming sick is usually about one week but can range from two days to two weeks or more, as per the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Most people with healthy immune systems will eventually recover from cyclosporiasis without treatment. However, if not treated, you may be sick for anywhere from a few days to a month or longer,” the health body warned.
“You may also have symptoms that seem to go away, but then return one or more times (relapse). People in poor health or those with a weakened immune system may be at a higher risk for severe or long illness.”
Taco Bell pull menu items amid parasistic outbreak
The advice comes amid a major cyclosporiasis outbreak in the United States, affecting thousands of citizens.
Fast-food favourites, including Taco Bell, have temporarily removed certain items due to fears of contamination.
Earlier this month, a Michigan-based Taco Bell posted a notice on its drive-thru, announcing that lettuce, cilantro (coriander), onion, guacamole, and pico de gallo would be unavailable for purchase, as per a Reddit post.
Items impacted by the cull include the new Cantina Chicken Mexican Pizza and the Crunchwrap Supreme.
FOODbible has previously contacted Taco Bell for comment.
In an attempt to remedy the situation, the beloved chain is offering $1 food deals, including the returning Meximelt on 4 August.
On the same day, customers can pick up a portion of Nacho Fries at the same time.
Just make sure you’re a Rewards Member, and you’ll be able to take advantage of the offer.
Ella Scott