Dozens of Canadians returning from the Royalton Splash Riviera in Cancun, Mexico are reporting symptoms of food-borne illness, including vomiting, cramps, and stomach pain, with some requiring hospitalization.
Outbreak at Mexican Resort
Kelly Bennett, travelling with her extended family from Hamilton, described how they began falling ill on the third day of their stay, “dropping like flies,” as she put it. The illness spread rapidly, impacting numerous families at the resort, with many confined to their rooms.
Bennett reported that children in her group were either bedridden or resting in towels by the pool, while adults struggled to abandon the bathroom. Her family received diagnoses of norovirus and food-borne parasites upon their return to Canada, and her son continues to experience symptoms, including parasites in his stool. The family has submitted 15 stool samples for testing.
One member of Bennett’s group was reportedly asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement after becoming ill. Warren Carriere and his girlfriend also experienced similar symptoms, with Carriere’s girlfriend hospitalized for several days upon returning to Vancouver Island. Doctors identified E. Coli in her case.
Travellers are sharing their experiences in a Facebook group, with multiple reports of illness occurring in February. The resort has not responded to inquiries from CTV News.
Wayne Smith, of Toronto Metropolitan University’s Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, suggested that increased travel to Mexico may be linked to tensions between Cuba and the United States. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist, advised Canadians to exercise caution with food and beverages in Mexico, recommending the adage: “boil it, peel it, cook it or forget it.”
Bennett noted that, by the time her family departed, resort staff appeared to acknowledge the issue, offering hand sanitizer at buffets and restaurants and wearing masks when interacting with guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What symptoms are being reported by travellers?
Travellers are reporting symptoms including vomiting, cramps, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and in some cases, the presence of parasites in stool samples.
Was a non-disclosure agreement offered to anyone affected?
Yes, one member of Kelly Bennett’s group was given a non-disclosure agreement after experiencing illness, though experts suggest such agreements may not be legally enforceable.
What advice is being given to travellers?
Travellers are advised to exercise caution with food and beverages, following the guidance to “boil it, peel it, cook it or forget it,” and to ensure they have adequate travel insurance, including “cancel for any reason” coverage.
Given the reports of illness and the potential for further cases, what steps will travellers take to protect their health when choosing a vacation destination?