Dozens of Canadians Fall Ill at Sandos Playacar Resort in Mexico

Dozens of Canadians reported falling ill during recent stays at the Sandos Playacar resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Guests are calling for an inspection after many experienced severe gastrointestinal symptoms.

What Happened?

Travelers began reporting symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration shortly after arriving at the all-inclusive resort. Joel Boily, a Winnipeg-based wedding photographer, said over 30 guests attending the wedding he was photographing became sick. His young children were among those affected.

“We thought it was mild at first, but it got worse,” Boily explained. His two-year-old faced severe dehydration, prompting concerns about medical care.

Weddings and Vacations Disrupted

Kyler Searle from Saskatoon said 52 out of 55 people in his wedding group fell ill. “Guests started getting sick before the ceremony. One groomsman even fainted,” he said.

Victor Azevedo, who was to officiate a wedding, described the trip as “ruined.” His pregnant niece postponed her wedding due to the outbreak.

Concerns Over Water and Cleanliness

A local doctor attending to a guest suggested contaminated water might be the cause. Guests reported foul odors from taps and toilets. Martha Scott from London, Ontario, described the resort as “poorly maintained.” Her 10-year-old son required hospitalization for severe dehydration.

“It’s alarming to have both seniors and children exposed to these conditions,” Scott said.

Resort’s Response

Sandos Hotels & Resorts stated that the illnesses could stem from seasonal viruses like norovirus or the flu. They emphasized that gastrointestinal issues are widespread in the region, not isolated to their property.

Despite the claims, guests criticized the resort’s handling of the situation. “They didn’t acknowledge our concerns or offer help,” Boily said.

Health Experts Weigh In

Dr. Tim Sly, an epidemiologist, noted that outbreaks at large resorts are common. “With many people dining together, mistakes happen,” he explained. Without lab tests, pinpointing the cause remains challenging.

Call for Action

Affected guests have filed formal complaints with Mexican health authorities. They seek a thorough inspection of the resort’s facilities to prevent future incidents.

“It’s heartbreaking to save for a dream vacation and face a nightmare instead,” Scott added.

Travelers’ Takeaway

• Drink bottled water and avoid ice when traveling in regions with water safety concerns.
• Wash hands regularly and carry sanitizer.
• Check travel advisories before booking accommodations.
• Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Global Affairs Canada and local authorities in Mexico are investigating the complaints.

For updates, visit Canada’s travel advisories and stay informed about resort safety practices.

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/mexico-all-inclusive-resort-food-poisoning-illness-norovirus-1.7464246
• https://ca.news.yahoo.com/manitobans-returning-mexico-became-ill-001429700.html
• https://ici.radio-canada.ca/rci/en/news/2142602/dozens-of-canadians-got-sick-at-mexican-all-inclusive-resort-call-for-facility-inspection