Travellers Warned of Potentially Fatal Mosquito-Borne Illnesses Amid Rise in UK Cases
UKHSA said 137 dengue cases were reported in England from January to June, with most linked to travel in South-East Asia and South Asia.
- The UK Health Security Agency warned travellers to take extra precautions against mosquito bites abroad following a rise in imported infections. Officials urge use of insect repellent and treated bed nets to prevent potentially fatal diseases.
- Data shows 137 cases of dengue fever in England from January to June, with 27 traced to Thailand and 19 in the Maldives. Chikungunya cases rose 43% in 2025, with 18 infections linked to trips to Sri Lanka.
- Eight cases of the Zika virus occurred in the first half of 2026, surpassing the seven recorded in 2025. Symptoms typically appear 4 to 10 days after an infected mosquito bite and include high temperature and muscle pain.
- Dr. Hilary Kirkbride, head of travel health at UKHSA, warned that natural immunity does not protect visitors like permanent residents. She advises checking the TravelHealthPro website for destination-specific health advice before planning a trip.
- Beyond mosquito-borne risks, UKHSA reported 287 cases of typhoid and paratyphoid fever so far this year. These illnesses spread through consuming food or water contaminated with Salmonella bacteria, requiring good hygiene precautions.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Britons heading abroad warned over bites that could cause debilitating fever and pain
British holidaymakers heading abroad this summer have been urged by health officials to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses following concerning new infection data.The UK Health Security Agency has issued guidance after figures revealed that Zika virus cases imported into the country have already surpassed last year's annual total.Between January and June 2026, eight Zika infections were recorded, exceeding the seven cases document…
The Herald Scotland
Travellers warned of potentially fatal mosquito-borne illnesses amid rise in UK cases
Travellers are being warned to take precautions against mosquito bites after the UKHSA published new data on infections imported to the UK.
UKHSA shares ‘special precautions’ warning to tourists over fatal disease
The warning comes as many Brits to prepare to go on their summer holidays Holidaymakers have been warned to protect themselves against mosquitoes as health officials published new data on infections imported into the UK. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said diseases spread by mosquitoes, such as dengue fever and Zika virus, can be harmful for some people. It urged travellers to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers and sleep…
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