The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an urgent warning to British holidaymakers, urging them to protect themselves against mosquitoes while travelling abroad this summer. New figures reveal a concerning increase in imported cases of Zika virus, dengue fever, and malaria, prompting health officials to emphasise the importance of precautions such as insect repellent, long clothing, and treated bed nets.
Zika Cases Already Exceed 2025 Total
Between January and June 2026, eight cases of Zika virus were reported in England, surpassing the seven cases recorded during the entire year of 2025. Four of these infections were linked to travel to Indonesia. Zika typically causes only mild illness, but it poses significant risks during pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and serious birth defects.
Dengue Fever Infections Remain High
A total of 137 imported dengue fever cases were reported in England during the first six months of 2026. South-East Asia and South Asia remain the most common regions of infection, with Thailand linked to 27 cases and the Maldives to 19. By comparison, 161 dengue cases had been recorded by the end of June 2025, though infections typically increase later in the year. Dengue fever can cause flu-like symptoms, including high temperature, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and nausea.
Chikungunya and Malaria Figures
Fifty-nine chikungunya cases were reported between January and June 2026, down from 73 during the same period in 2025. Sri Lanka accounted for the highest number of travel-related infections, with 18 cases. Chikungunya symptoms include fever, joint pain, headaches, muscle aches, joint swelling, and rash. Meanwhile, 557 malaria cases were reported across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland between January and May 2026, compared with 548 during the same period last year. Malaria can be fatal if left untreated, with symptoms including fever, vomiting, and muscle aches.
Expert Advice for Safe Travel
Dr Hilary Kirkbride, Consultant Epidemiologist and Head of Travel Health at UKHSA, stated: “Summer is a popular time to travel – don't let illness spoil your holidays. Good preparation and planning is important for a safe and enjoyable trip. Check the TravelHealthPro website for the latest health advice for your destination, including which vaccines you may need and any important medications, such as anti-malarial tablets. To protect against mosquito-borne infections, use insect repellent, cover exposed skin and sleep under a treated bed net where needed. For enteric fever and other stomach bugs, make sure you take good food and water hygiene precautions.”
Dr Kirkbride added: “Even if you have visited a country before, you do not have the same level of natural protection against infections as permanent residents, so it is important to take precautions every time you travel. And if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, there are special precautions you should take, so please speak to a doctor, nurse or local travel clinic before planning your trip.”
