Increased Chikungunya infections in UK travelers prompt mosquito bite caution

Increased Chikungunya infections in UK travelers prompt mosquito bite caution

The UK has witnessed a significant increase in cases of the chikungunya virus and the emergence of the Oropouche virus in people returning from travel abroad. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), there were 73 reported cases of chikungunya between January and June 2025, compared to 27 cases in the same period in 2024. The rise in chikungunya cases is mainly linked to travel to countries with ongoing outbreaks such as Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius.

For the first time in the UK, three cases of the Oropouche virus have been reported, all associated with travel to Brazil. Both viruses are mosquito- or midge-borne and related to travel abroad.

Current distribution of cases:

Most of the chikungunya cases reported in the UK this year were in London, with 42 confirmed cases in early 2025. The Oropouche virus, primarily found in parts of Central and South America, has recently spread to countries including Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Guyana, Peru, and the Dominican Republic.

Prevention measures include:

To avoid mosquito and midge bites, it is advised to use insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin, wear long sleeves and trousers, especially during dawn and dusk when these vectors are most active, and stay in accommodations with screened windows or air conditioning.

If symptoms like fever, joint pain, headache, or chills develop after travel to affected areas, prompt medical advice should be sought. For chikungunya, two vaccines are approved and available in the UK at private travel clinics, which travelers to endemic regions can consider.

Both diseases remain travel-related with no evidence of local transmission within the UK so far, but vigilance is advised during travel to endemic regions and awareness of symptoms upon return.

Important facts:

• Chikungunya can't spread directly from person to person.
• No vaccines to guard against the Oropouche virus are available in the UK's public health system.
• The name "chikungunya" comes from a word in a Tanzanian language meaning "that which bends up", due to the joint pain associated with it.
• The mosquitos responsible for spreading chikungunya aren't present in the UK.
• The Oropouche virus was first identified in Trinidad and Tobago in the 1950s.

Dr Philip Veal, consultant in public health at the UKHSA, has stated that it is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when traveling. He emphasized that simple steps such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk of Oropouche infection.

In summary, the rise in chikungunya and emergence of Oropouche virus cases in the UK reflect increased travel to outbreak areas and highlight the importance of vector bite prevention and prompt healthcare consultation after travel.

1. The UK has witnessed a notable escalation in cases of the chikungunya virus and the emergence of the Oropoucha virus in people returning from travel abroad, posing a challenge in the realm of health and wellness.
2. A significant increase of 46 reported cases of chikungunya were observed in the UK between January and June 2025, indicating a 192% growth compared to the same period in 2024.
3. The surge in chikungunya cases is predominantly linked to travel to countries with ongoing outbreaks such as Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius, underscoring the importance of workplace wellness and awareness.
4. For the first time in the UK, three cases of the Oropouche virus have been reported, all associated with travel to Brazil, hinting at the global spread of such medical conditions.
5. Both viruses are mosquito- or midge-borne and related to travel abroad, making climate change a relevant factor in their analysis.
6. Most of the chikungunya cases reported in the UK this year were in London, with 42 confirmed cases in early 2025, highlighting the need for city-specific initiatives in health and wellness.
7. The Oropouche virus, primarily found in parts of Central and South America, has recently spread to countries including Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Guyana, Peru, and the Dominican Republic, raising concerns about global health issues.
8. To avoid mosquito and midge bites, it is advised to use insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin, wear long sleeves and trousers, especially during dawn and dusk when these vectors are most active, and stay in accommodations with screened windows or air conditioning.
9. If symptoms like fever, joint pain, headache, or chills develop after travel to affected areas, prompt medical advice should be sought, as delay may worsen chronic diseases like cancer and respiratory conditions.
10. For chikungunya, two vaccines are approved and available in the UK at private travel clinics, offering protection against this travel-related disease for travelers to endemic regions.
11. Both diseases remain travel-related with no evidence of local transmission within the UK so far, but vigilance is advised during travel to endemic regions and awareness of symptoms upon return.
12. Chikungunya can't spread directly from person to person, highlighting the importance of proper hygiene and sanitation in healthcare and environmental science.
13. No vaccines to guard against the Oropouche virus are available in the UK's public health system, pointing out the need for research and investment in medical treatments and therapies.
14. The name "chikungunya" comes from a word in a Tanzanian language meaning "that which bends up", due to the joint pain associated with it, emphasizing the impact of these diseases on a person's daily life and wellness.
15. The mosquitos responsible for spreading chikungunya aren't present in the UK, limiting the immediate impact of the disease but requiring awareness and preparedness for periodic outbreaks.
16. The Oropouche virus was first identified in Trinidad and Tobago in the 1950s, adding to the global history of emerging diseases and the importance of watchfulness in the context of diversity and inclusion.
17. Dr Philip Veal, consultant in public health at the UKHSA, has stated that it is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when traveling, encouraging the adoption of personal health practices and awareness.
18. He emphasized that simple steps such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk of Oropouche infection, reinforcing the importance of fitness and exercise and overall health management.
19. In summary, the rise in chikungunya and emergence of Oropouche virus cases in the UK reflect increased travel to outbreak areas, necessitating attention to health and wellness, personal hygiene, and vigilance during travel.
20. The emergence of these travel-related diseases also spotlights the global interconnectedness in the manufacturing industry, as trade and transportation play a crucial role in spreading these pathogens.
21. Additionally, mental health concerns may arise due to anxiety and stress caused by these outbreaks, requiring attention and investment in mental health awareness and resources.
22. For men, specific issues such as mens' health, especially related to autoimmune disorders and prostate health, may become more relevant in the context of these diseases.
23. Eye health, hearing, skin care, and sexual health are also crucial aspects of overall wellness that should be considered during travel when faced with such health risks.
24. In the context of these diseases, climate change can exacerbate the spread of such pathogens by facilitating vector population growth and increasing the suitable environment for them.
25. The private sector, including retail and entrepreneurship, has a considerable role to play in raising awareness and providing accessible solutions like effective insect repellents and other travel essentials for good health and wellness.
26. Furthermore, financial institutions and businesses should consider the impact of these diseases on their employees' health and productivity, and invest in corporate wellness programs, flexible working hours, and additional benefits to address these concerns.
27. The financial aspects of managing these diseases extend to personal finance, insurance, and wealth management, as proper medical care and treatment can be costly and strain one's finances, necessitating budgeting and debt management.
28. Technologies like smartphones and gadgets can aid in prevention strategies through health apps, information resources, and communication tools, ensuring a more informed and proactive population.
29. Governments and policymakers must address these issues with a comprehensive approach, factoring in climate change adaptation, healthcare reform, and investment in scientific research to develop vaccines and improve diagnostics for diseases like chikungunya and Oropouche virus, ensuring a safer and healthier future for all.

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