The UK Foreign Office has issued an urgent health alert for British nationals planning holidays to Spain, specifically highlighting a dangerous spike in dengue fever cases.
Official government guidance has been updated to warn travellers about the significant increase in infections, particularly across the popular Balearic Islands, with Ibiza being identified as a specific area of concern.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a serious viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily active during daylight hours. Unlike the mosquitoes commonly found in the UK, these pests are aggressive daytime biters.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- A sudden, very high temperature (40°C/104°F)
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Intense muscle and joint pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- A widespread skin rash
Protecting Yourself Abroad
The Foreign Office advises travellers to take robust preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites:
- Use insect repellents containing DEET on exposed skin
- Wear long-sleeved tops and full-length trousers, especially during early morning and late afternoon
- Sleep under mosquito nets in rooms that are not air-conditioned
- Be aware that these mosquitoes can breed in very small amounts of stagnant water
There is currently no widely available vaccine or specific treatment for dengue fever. Medical care focuses on managing symptoms, with paracetamol recommended for pain and fever. Crucially, aspirin and anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen should be avoided as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you or anyone in your travel group develops a high fever during or within two weeks of returning from a region where dengue is present, seek immediate medical attention. Severe dengue requires urgent hospital treatment.
This alert serves as a critical reminder for the millions of Brits travelling to Spanish destinations this year to prioritise their health and take necessary precautions.
