Health authorities in the UK have issued a travel advisory following a surge in cases of the Chikungunya virus in several popular holiday destinations. The mosquito-borne disease, which causes severe joint pain and fever, has been reported in regions across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Symptoms to Watch For
The Chikungunya virus typically presents with symptoms such as:
- High fever
- Severe joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Rash
- Fatigue
While most patients recover within a week, some may experience persistent joint pain for months or even years.
Travel Precautions
Experts recommend that travellers to affected areas take the following precautions:
- Use insect repellent containing DEET
- Wear long-sleeved clothing
- Stay in accommodations with air conditioning or mosquito nets
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk)
Current Risk Areas
The virus has been particularly active in:
- Parts of India
- Southeast Asia
- Caribbean islands
- Central and South America
- Selected African countries
Public Health England advises travellers returning from these regions to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms within two weeks of their trip.
No Current UK Transmission
While there have been imported cases in the UK, authorities confirm there is no current risk of local transmission as the mosquito species that spreads Chikungunya is not established in Britain. However, they continue to monitor the situation closely.
