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The cyclospora parasite causes explosive diarrhoea and contaminated food, particularly herbs, salad and soft fruit, are common sources of infection

There has been a rise in Brits contracting a parasite that causes explosive diarrhoea.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said data shows a "sharp rise" in cyclospora infections among people who've travelled to Mexico. Cyclospora is a parasite that causes explosive diarrhoea.

Contaminated food, specifically herbs, salad and soft fruit, are common sources of outbreaks and infections. Infection is acquired via consumption of contaminated food.

Cyclospora doesn’t naturally occur in the UK and there is no risk of spread from person to person, UKHSA said. A total of 67 cases have been reported across the UK between April 30 and July 15.

The agency has now advised all travellers to take precautions when going abroad by maintaining good food and water hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. Besides frequent watery diarrhoea, cyclospora also causes abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, flatulence, low-grade fever, loss of appetite and weight loss.

Infections are usually mild and most people improve within a few days without treatment. However, these can present as more severe or prolonged in people who are immunocompromised and antibiotics may be prescribed.

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