UK Travellers Face High Virus Risk in Seychelles Holiday Hotspot
Health authorities have issued a stark warning to UK holidaymakers, alerting them to a high risk of virus transmission in one of the world's most beautiful holiday destinations. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has detected a significant surge in infections, prompting urgent travel advisories.
Surge in Chikungunya Cases Reported
In a report published today, the ECDC revealed that since November 2025, more than 110 travel-related cases of chikungunya virus disease have been reported by 13 EU and EEA countries among travellers returning from the Seychelles. This marks a dramatic increase compared to earlier months in 2025, with no cases reported in preceding years.
The emergence of chikungunya in the Seychelles aligns with a broader regional spread throughout the Indian Ocean. Notably, Réunion experienced a major outbreak in 2025. Local health authorities indicate that chikungunya virus has become more prevalent in the Seychelles compared to other circulating arboviruses.
Popular Destination for UK Travellers
Approximately 20,000 to 30,000 people from the UK travel to the Seychelles annually, with 19,870 visitors recorded in 2023. The archipelago, consisting of 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning beaches and tropical paradise setting.
The ECDC emphasised that the current likelihood of chikungunya virus infection for travellers to the Seychelles is high. Given that the peak travel period occurs between February and April, strengthening communication to travellers and travel medicine clinics is crucial.
UK Health Security Agency Data
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that in 2024, there were 112 confirmed and probable cases of chikungunya among travellers returning to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This represents nearly one and a half times the number reported in 2023.
Travel to India accounted for the majority of these cases, followed by Pakistan and Brazil. However, the Seychelles outbreak presents a new concern for UK travellers.
Virus Transmission and Symptoms
Chikungunya spreads through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. Unlike malaria-carrying mosquitoes active at night, these insects are most active during the day, especially at dusk and dawn, posing risks for daytime activities.
The UKHSA outlined the symptoms:
- High fever and severe joint pain, often in small joints or previous injury sites
- Muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light, and distinctive skin rashes
While most people recover within 1 to 2 weeks, joint pain can persist for months or years, with up to 12% of patients experiencing discomfort three years after infection. Serious complications are rare but higher risks exist for young babies, elderly people, and adults with underlying health conditions.
Preventive Measures and Recommendations
The ECDC recommends reinforced preventive measures for travellers, including vaccination based on national recommendations. The likelihood of onward transmission in mainland Europe is currently considered low due to unfavourable environmental conditions for Aedes mosquitoes.
Health officials urge travellers to the Seychelles to take precautions against mosquito bites and stay informed about the ongoing outbreak.
