Riviera Maya hotels test negative for Cyclospora parasite

Mexico’s Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) has ruled out the presence of the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite in 16 hotels across the Riviera Maya. The sanitary inspection was launched following a travel alert from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which reported an increase in cyclosporiasis cases among travelers returning from the Mexican Caribbean.

Health authorities conducted unannounced audits, collecting 32 samples of fruits and vegetables from food bars and 11 samples of human-use water. Laboratory analysis using real-time PCR testing at the national reference laboratory (CCAYAC) returned negative results for the parasite and showed no indicators of contamination. Officials stated that the results indicate food handling and sanitary control processes at the inspected locations were operating within safety margins.

The UKHSA reported 67 cases of cyclosporiasis in British travelers between April and July, with 48 of those individuals having visited Mexico. Despite the negative test results, Mexican health authorities, including the General Directorate of Epidemiology, confirmed they will maintain continuous sanitary surveillance and food chain traceability to prevent future risks.