Canadians Fall Ill at Mexican Resort: Calls for Inspection and Improved Hygiene

Image credits: Submitted by Joel Boily

A recent trip to Mexico turned into a nightmare for several Canadian families who stayed at an all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen. Many of them became ill, experiencing severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, which led to a ruined vacation and a call for action to investigate the cause of the illness. Winnipeg-based wedding photographer Joel Boily's family was among those affected, with almost everyone in their group of over 30 guests falling ill, including his young children. Boily believes the illness was due to food poisoning, and a local doctor who attended to someone in his group suggested that the water at the resort might be contaminated.

The incident has sparked a campaign calling for a full inspection of the facilities at the Sandos Playacar resort, where the Canadians stayed. The resort's management has attributed the illnesses to a rise in gastrointestinal illnesses related to norovirus or seasonal flu in Canada and the U.S., but the affected guests are not convinced. They claim that the resort acted negligently in its handling of the situation and was dismissive of their concerns. Victor Azevedo, uncle to the bride whose wedding was postponed due to the illness, said that the resort's lack of action destroyed the whole trip and put the health of his pregnant niece at risk.

Other guests who spoke to CBC News also questioned the cleanliness of the resort's facilities, citing unhygienic conditions and sewage-like smells in some areas. Martha Scott, from London, Ont., said that her 10-year-old son had to stay at a private hospital due to severe dehydration, and she hopes that no one else has to go through the same experience. Dr. Tim Sly, an epidemiologist and professor emeritus at Toronto Metropolitan University, noted that it's hard to diagnose a potentially foodborne illness without running tests or going through a list of what all of the guests ate. The incident highlights the need for improved hygiene and safety measures at resorts to prevent future outbreaks of illness.

Here are some key points related to the incident: * Dozens of Canadian guests fell ill at the Sandos Playacar resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico * The illnesses were characterized by severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration * The affected guests are calling for a full inspection of the resort's facilities * The resort's management has attributed the illnesses to a rise in gastrointestinal illnesses related to norovirus or seasonal flu in Canada and the U.S. * The incident has sparked concerns about the cleanliness and hygiene of the resort's facilities * The affected guests are seeking action to prevent future outbreaks of illness at the resort.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing hygiene and safety at resorts, particularly those that cater to large numbers of guests. By taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of illness, resorts can help ensure that their guests have a safe and enjoyable vacation. In the meantime, the affected Canadians are waiting for a response from the resort and local authorities, and are hoping that their experience will serve as a warning to others to be vigilant when traveling to Mexico.