| Keyword | Description |
|---|---|
| Cyclospora | A parasite that causes an intestinal infection called cyclosporiasis. |
| COFEPRIS | Mexico’s Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risk. |
| PCR Technique | A method used to detect pathogens by amplifying DNA sequences. |
The Federal Commission for Protection Against Sanitary Risk (COFEPRIS) has announced that no Cyclospora parasites were found in samples taken from 16 hotels across the Riviera Maya. This investigation followed reports of British tourists becoming ill after visiting the Quintana Roo coast in Mexico. COFEPRIS’ tests included 32 samples of fruits and vegetables from hotel food bars and 11 samples of water meant for human consumption. All tested negative for the parasite.
These tests were conducted using a real-time PCR technique, a sophisticated method for detecting pathogens. The COFEPRIS National Reference Laboratory conducted these analyses, in line with the Bacteriological Analytical Manual. This effort was part of a larger sanitary surveillance initiative in the Mexican Caribbean, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Epidemiology.
The UK Health Security Agency had previously reported an increase in cyclosporiasis cases among travelers returning from Mexico. Sixty-seven cases were identified between April and mid-July, with 48 of the travelers having visited Mexico.
COFEPRIS’ findings counter concerns that Mexico was the source of these infections. Mexico’s Health Ministry also investigated the issue and confirmed 33 cases of cyclosporiasis across 13 Mexican states. However, Health Minister Dr. David Kershenobich emphasized that these cases are a tiny fraction of the population and that Cyclospora infections occur globally, not just in Mexico.
Cyclosporiasis, caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite, leads to severe diarrhea and is often linked to unwashed produce. The infection spreads via contaminated food and water. The U.S. previously reported a major cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting more than 1,600 people.
However, the recent tests in Mexico suggest that the country’s hotels maintain good sanitary practices.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English | Spanish |
|---|---|
| Parasite | Parásito |
| Investigation | Investigación |
| Contamination | Contaminación |
Time to discuss
- Why is it important for countries to investigate reports of health concerns from tourists?
- How do international health investigations impact global tourism?
- What measures can be taken to prevent the spread of infections like cyclosporiasis?
Let’s Write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph
- Explain the role of COFEPRIS in maintaining public health safety in Mexico.
- Discuss the significance of using PCR techniques in detecting pathogens.
