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Scotsman
a day ago
- Health
- Scotsman
Chikungunya virus symptoms after mosquito bite warning issued
Travellers are being urged to be vigilant 🦟 Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... There has been an increase in the number of travel-related cases of the chikungunya virus. The latest data reveals a total of 73 cases were reported between January and June 2025. The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) is warning travellers to be vigilant. Holidaymakers are being urged to protect themselves from mosquitoes after a surge in cases of the chikungunya virus. The latest data from the UKHSA revealed a total of 73 cases were reported between January and June 2025. The same period last year saw only 27 cases, with 2025 having the highest number of cases recorded to date. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne infection related to overseas travel. The majority of cases reported travelling to Sri Lanka, India or Mauritius, where there are ongoing local outbreaks. All cases were reported in England, with the majority in London. However, there is no risk of onward transmission of chikungunya in the UK, as the mosquitoes that transmit the disease cannot thrive here. There has been an increase in the number of travel-related cases of the chikungunya virus. | MARTIN LELIEVRE/AFP via Getty Images Speaking about the risks, Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said: 'Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we're seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. 'While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. Thankfully, symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets, can greatly reduce the risk. 'Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro Website for the latest advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also be considered for those travelling to higher-risk regions.' What is the chikungunya virus? The Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-borne infection transferred to humans when they are bitten. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Found in more than 100 countries in Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Pacific islands, it is not common in Europe, but has been found in Italy and France, with cases in the UK related to overseas travel. What are the symptoms of chikungunya virus? Symptoms of the chikungunya virus include a sudden fever, usually accompanied by joint pain. While most people recover fully within one to two weeks, the joint pain can persist for months or even years. Up to 12% of patients experience discomfort three years after infection. Serious complications are uncommon, but in rare cases, it can be fatal. Can you get a vaccine for the chikungunya virus? If you will be travelling to a destination where there is a risk of the chikungunya virus, there are two vaccines that have recently been approved for use in the UK. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad IXCHIQ® is available for individuals aged 18 to 59 years old and Vimkunya® is available for individuals 12 years and older. Both vaccines are available privately at travel clinics after assessment from a medical professional. You can find out more information about the chikungunya virus at NHS Fit For Travel.
Scotsman
a day ago
- Health
- Scotsman
Chikungunya virus symptoms after mosquito bite warning issued
Travellers are being urged to be vigilant 🦟 Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... There has been an increase in the number of travel-related cases of the chikungunya virus. The latest data reveals a total of 73 cases were reported between January and June 2025. The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) is warning travellers to be vigilant. Holidaymakers are being urged to protect themselves from mosquitoes after a surge in cases of the chikungunya virus. The latest data from the UKHSA revealed a total of 73 cases were reported between January and June 2025. The same period last year saw only 27 cases, with 2025 having the highest number of cases recorded to date. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne infection related to overseas travel. The majority of cases reported travelling to Sri Lanka, India or Mauritius, where there are ongoing local outbreaks. All cases were reported in England, with the majority in London. However, there is no risk of onward transmission of chikungunya in the UK, as the mosquitoes that transmit the disease cannot thrive here. There has been an increase in the number of travel-related cases of the chikungunya virus. | MARTIN LELIEVRE/AFP via Getty Images Speaking about the risks, Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said: 'Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we're seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. 'While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. Thankfully, symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets, can greatly reduce the risk. 'Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro Website for the latest advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also be considered for those travelling to higher-risk regions.' What is the chikungunya virus? The Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-borne infection transferred to humans when they are bitten. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Found in more than 100 countries in Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Pacific islands, it is not common in Europe, but has been found in Italy and France, with cases in the UK related to overseas travel. What are the symptoms of chikungunya virus? Symptoms of the chikungunya virus include a sudden fever, usually accompanied by joint pain. While most people recover fully within one to two weeks, the joint pain can persist for months or even years. Up to 12% of patients experience discomfort three years after infection. Serious complications are uncommon, but in rare cases, it can be fatal. Can you get a vaccine for the chikungunya virus? If you will be travelling to a destination where there is a risk of the chikungunya virus, there are two vaccines that have recently been approved for use in the UK. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad IXCHIQ® is available for individuals aged 18 to 59 years old and Vimkunya® is available for individuals 12 years and older. Both vaccines are available privately at travel clinics after assessment from a medical professional.
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Huge rise in Brits catching deadly organ-destroying virus on holiday
Chikungunya cases are at a record high in England after tripling in just a year with the majority reported travelling from Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius Cases of a deadly virus caught by Brits while abroad have tripled in the last year hitting record levels, government data shows. The latest UK Health Security Agency figures show an increase in travel-associated chikungunya cases in England. A total of 73 cases were reported between January and June 2025. The same period in 2024 saw just 27 cases. This is the highest number of cases ever recorded in England. The report which covers cases in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, reveals that there were also three cases of Oropouche virus in travellers arriving back in the UK. It was the first time Oropouche has been recorded here and all cases were associated with travel from Brazil. It comes after a pilot says he's found the location of Amelia Earhart's aircraft using Google Earth. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne infection related to overseas travel, with symptoms including a sudden onset of fever usually accompanied by joint pain. Most people recover fully within two weeks, but joint pain can persist for months or even years. Up to 12% of patients still experiencing discomfort three years later. Serious complications are uncommon, but the disease can be fatal in very rare cases, especially if caught by the very young, old or those with other underlying illnesses. Of the 73 chikungunya cases, the majority reported travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius, linked with ongoing local outbreaks in countries in the Indian Ocean region. All cases were reported in England, with the majority in London. There are only two species of mosquito that transmit the disease and they are not established in the UK. This is because our climate is generally not suitable for their survival and breeding. There is currently no risk of onward transmission of chikungunya in the UK, the UKHSA says. There are two vaccines recently been approved for use in the UK based on The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation(JCVI), to protect against chikungunya. Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said: "Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we're seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. "Thankfully symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer. It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk. "Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro Website for the latest advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also be considered for those travelling to higher-risk regions." Oropouche virus is spread predominantly by midge bites rather than mosquito bites. The primary type of midge responsible for the outbreak in the Americas is not seen in the UK and Europe. If a person becomes unwell with symptoms such as high fever, chills, headache, joint pain and muscle aches following travel to affected areas, they should seek urgent medical advice. There has been a rise in Oropouche virus infections globally since 2024, especially in multiple countries in South America, Central America and the Caribbean, with Brazil reporting the largest outbreaks. Due to the increase in cases, and some recent concerns regarding Oropouche virus infection during pregnancy, pregnant travellers should take particular care. The report also noted a significant increase in travel-associated cholera cases in the UK, with eight cases (compared to just one case in 2024) – most cases reported travel history to India and Ethiopia – with all Ethiopia-linked cases associated with an outbreak there. There were 161 dengue cases reported in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, a 67% decrease compared to the same period in 2024, which saw 490 cases Zika virus disease cases also decreased to four cases in the first half of 2025, down from 9 cases in 2024.
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Deadly Oropouche virus found in UK for first time after sweeping through Europe
The latest statistics, released today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), disclose three cases of Oropouche virus among travellers returning to the UK from Brazil A mysterious "sloth virus" has been detected in the UK for the first time after spreading across Europe. The latest statistics, released today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), revealed three cases of Oropouche virus among travellers returning to the UK. It's the first time the Oropouche virus has been found in the UK, with all instances linked to journeys to Brazil. Latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) also show a surge in travel-related chikungunya infections throughout England. Between January and June 2025, 73 cases were recorded - a sharp rise from the 27 cases during the same timeframe in 2024, marking the highest tally ever documented for this period. It comes after Oropouche quietly spread across the continent, and could be more dangerous than first feared. Chikungunya is a mosquito-transmitted disease connected to international travel, presenting symptoms such as sudden fever typically coupled with joint discomfort. Of the 73 chikungunya cases, the majority reported travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius, linked with ongoing local outbreaks in countries in the Indian Ocean region. All cases were reported in England, with the majority in London. Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said: "Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we're seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. Thankfully symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer. "It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk. Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro Website for the latest advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also be considered for those travelling to higher-risk regions." Get health warnings straight to your WhatsApp! As the world grapples with the threats of Covid-19, mpox and more, the Mirror has launched its very own Health & Wellbeing WhatsApp community where you'll get health warnings and news straight to your phone. We'll send you the latest breaking updates and exclusives all directly to your phone. Users must download or already have WhatsApp on their phones to join in. All you have to do to join is click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! We may also send you stories from other titles across the Reach group. We will also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. What is Oropouche virus? Oropouche virus (OROV) is spread predominantly by midge bites rather than mosquito bites. The primary type of midge responsible for the outbreak in the Americas is not seen in the UK and Europe. If a person becomes unwell with symptoms such as high fever, chills, headache, joint pain and muscle aches following travel to affected areas, they should seek urgent medical advice. How does the virus spread? There has been a rise in Oropouche virus infections globally since 2024, especially in multiple countries in South America, Central America and the Caribbean, with Brazil reporting the largest outbreaks. Due to the increase in cases, and some recent concerns regarding Oropouche virus infection during pregnancy, pregnant travellers should take particular care. What are the symptoms of Oropouche? Symptoms include a sudden onset of fever usually accompanied by joint pain. While most people recover fully within 1 to 2 weeks, the joint pain can persist for months or even years in some cases, with up to 12% of patients still experiencing discomfort 3 years after infection. Serious complications are uncommon, but very rarely the disease can be fatal, particularly in the very young, older individuals and those with other underlying illnesses.
Daily Record
02-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
UKHSA issues health warning to anyone with holidays booked in July
As July is set to be a peak month for holidays, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released some important guidance for anyone who is planning to travel abroad. Summer is at its peak. But it's not just about securing your spot on a Parisian getaway, mapping out an Italian odyssey, or lazing under the Thai sun for a fortnight. It's also a really sensible idea to know the ins and outs of staying well while indulging your wanderlust. With July marking the zenith of the British travel season, a wave of holidaymakers is poised to set sail for foreign shores in pursuit of exotic thrills and idyllic strands. But charting unknown regions is not without its risks, prompting the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to provide vital advice for those plotting overseas jaunts this month. In a recent online briefing, Anjali Pai, the Border Health Lead at the UKHSA, highlighted the significance of being well-prepared before taking off. She said: "Before we go on holiday, there are some things we can all do to reduce the risk of us becoming unwell. First of all, you can check the Travel Health Pro Website which has got really good information on travelling and things to do before we travel." Furthermore, she advised keeping abreast with the latest foreign travel guidance by consulting official government information. She pointed out that health risks and recommendations may shift – making it wise to stay updated even when returning to familiar stomping grounds, as noted by Surrey Live. Immunisations and hand washing Anjali urged holidaymakers to consult their GPs about necessary immunisations, highlighting: "There are also some travel vaccines that are really crucial if you're travelling to certain countries. Things like hepatitis A and typhoid can be easily prevented by a vaccine." The sheer disappointment of falling ill during a lavish overseas hotel break due to an ailment contracted on the flight can ruin your trip. The UKHSA official suggests several steps to sidestep such mishaps. Hand cleanliness is important, of course. Advice includes a thorough 30-second scrub with warm water and soap, especially before eating as well as after visits to the loo. Also, keeping tissues at hand for sneezes or coughs is encouraged. For those planning a trip to tropical climes or places plagued by mosquitos, using repellents, donning long sleeves, and sleeping under mosquito nets are recommended strategies. Anjali also added: "Safe sexual health is something we should all be practising when we are abroad by using condoms." Meanwhile, post-holiday sickness can often stem from bugs caught whilst away. Thus, any returning Brits showing signs of illness, particularly if others in the group mirror these symptoms, should promptly consult their doctor.
