Latest news with #mosquitobites
The Independent
2 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
What is chikungunya virus? Symptoms and advice as cases rise among travellers returning to UK
Holidaymakers have been warned by health authorities about mosquito bites after a rise in travel-associated chikungunya cases in England. Some 73 cases have been reported between January and June this year, compared to 27 over the same period in 2024. The majority of those with the virus reported visiting Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius, which the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) say is linked with ongoing local outbreaks in the Indian Ocean. All cases were reported in England, with the majority in London. However, the UKHSA says that 'there is currently no risk of onward transmission of chikungunya in the UK.' 'There are only 2 species of mosquito that transmit the disease and they are not established in the UK at present,' it said. 'This is because our climate is generally not suitable for their survival and breeding.' Dr Philip Veal, a consultant in public health at UKHSA, said it is essential to take precaution against mosquito bites when travelling. Here is what travellers need to know about the virus, plus advice from a specialist travel doctor on how to best prepare for travelling overseas. What is chikungunya and how is it spread? Chikungunya virus disease is a mosquito-borne disease that is found across tropical and sub-tropical regions. It is spread to humans by a bite from an infected mosquito. It cannot be passed from human to human. Most cases have been found in the Americas, Africa and Asia. Brazil has had the most cases in 2025 (more than 185,000), followed by Bolivia with more than 4,700. In total, there have been approximately 240,000 chikungunya cases and 90 related deaths across 16 countries or territories since the beginning of the year. La Réunion and Mayotte, two French islands off the east coast of Africa, have ongoing outbreaks of chikungunya, with the former recording54,000 cases as of July 2025. As of the beginning of July 2025, over 35,000 cases were reported in Asian countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Pakistan and China. Almost 8,000 instances of the chikungunya virus have been diagnosed in China, mostly in Foshan city in Guangdong province. It has prompted authorities to impose forceful measures including mass quarantines, although the virus is not spread person to person. Cases have also been reported in Senegal and Kenya, while European countries have diagnosed imported cases from Madagascar and the Seychelles. The transmission of dengue and chikungunya virus in mainland Europe has been linked by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) to travellers who have caught the virus outside the region, then travelled inadvertently with infected mosquitoes. 'The risk of locally-acquired chikungunya and dengue virus transmissions is therefore increasing,' the ECDC said. In the EU, there have been 31 locally acquired cases this year, comprising 30 from France and one from Italy. What are the symptoms? 'Chikungunya' originates from a word used by the Makonde people in Tanzania, where the disease was first discovered in the 1950s. It means 'that which bends up', describing the contorted posture of infected people who experience severe joint pain. Alongside joint pain, people can also experience an abrupt onset of fever, joint swelling, muscle pain, headaches, nausea, fatigue and rashes. The joint pain can be debilitating and usually lasts for a few days, but it has been known to last for weeks, months or even years. If an infected person does not experience joint pain, the symptoms will be mild and can go unrecognised as chikungunya. Most people will recover fully from the infection. There have been some occasional cases of eye, heart, and neurological complications, while newborns and older people with underlying medical conditions are at a higher risk of severe disease. Patients with severe disease should be hospitalised because of the risk of organ damage or death. Once someone has recovered from chikungunya, they are likely to be immune to future chikungunya infections. Is there a vaccine? The UK government has approved vaccines against chikungunya disease, containing a form of the virus that has been weakened so it cannot multiply. The vaccine works by training the immune system to recognise the virus, which will then produce specific antibodies to attack it. It can only be obtained via a prescription and given to those who plan to travel abroad where the virus is present. There are two vaccines available: one for individuals aged 18 to 59, and another for those over 12. Hilary Kirkbride, head of travel health at UKHSA, says: 'Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering exposed skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets, can effectively reduce the risk. 'Before you travel, check the TravelHealthPro website for the latest health advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also considered for those travelling to higher risk regions.' A travel doctor's guide on being prepared Dr Richard Dawood, a travel medical specialist at Fleet Street Clinic, explained to The Independent how the vaccination can help travellers prevent getting sick from the chikungunya virus. He said: 'This is a new situation for us. Until a very short time ago, we had no vaccine, and the only approach to prevention was to make careful use of insect repellents and insect precautions. 'So now we've got this extra tool in the armoury, and because the vaccine gives long-lasting protection, it's something that could be considered if you are planning to travel over a period of time. 'It's a fairly expensive vaccine, but if you're going to be travelling over a period of years to Southern Europe and beyond, it may be something that could be considered.' When asked about getting the vaccination for a trip to France, Mr Dawood advised to look at the decision in terms of where you will be travelling over the next few years rather than in the context of a single trip. 'The risk from a one-off short trip to France is probably very small,' he said. 'There's been only a very small number of cases so far. So statistically, you're not very likely to, but over time, as somebody who loves to travel and loves going to hot countries, then I would probably want to be protected against it in the long term.' Wherever you are travelling, Mr Dawood advised holidaymakers to 'do your homework'. He said: 'If there's an actual outbreak at your destination, then I would say no hesitation, definitely have the vaccine. 'Taking a bit of time and getting some really focused travel health advice for your particular trip is very worthwhile because it can save you from getting a vaccine that you don't need or that may not be sensible for you, and it can help prioritise the really important things for your trip.
The Independent
3 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
Health warning as chikungunya cases detected among returning travellers
Holiday makers have been urged to take precautions against mosquito bites while abroad amid a rise in cases of the chikungunya virus among travellers returning to Britain. Chikungunya is a virus spread by mosquito bites, the symptoms of which include a sudden fever and joint pain. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also detected the first cases of the emerging disease oropouche virus in the UK, all of which were linked to travel from Brazil. According to UKHSA, most people recover within two weeks, although the joint pain can last for months or even years in some cases. Serious complications are not common, but in rare cases the disease can be fatal, particularly in very young or older people, or those with underlying health conditions. The latest travel-associated infections report from UKHSA shows there were 73 cases of chikungunya reported between January and June 2025, compared to 27 cases for the same period last year. The majority were linked to travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius. All cases were reported in England, primarily in London. There is currently no risk of onward transmission of chikungunya, as the two species of mosquito that transmit the disease are not established in the UK, UKHSA said. The illness mainly occurs in Africa and Asia, specifically southern Asia, although cases have been reported in Europe and parts of North America. However, this year there have been outbreaks in the Americas and Asia, with surges in China and the Indian Ocean islands of Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritius. 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.' Two chikungunya vaccines are approved for use in the UK and are available to buy after an assessment at a private travel clinic. Meanwhile, the first UK cases of oropouche virus, which is spread by midge bites, have been detected by UKHSA. The three cases were all associated with travel to Brazil. The flu-like illness can cause a fever, headaches, joint pain, muscle pain, chills, nausea and vomiting. Officials urged anyone who becomes unwell with these symptoms after travel to affected areas, including parts of Central and South America and the Caribbean, to seek urgent medical advice. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), before late 2023, oropouche virus was mostly reported near the Amazon rainforest area. However, in 2024, Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Guyana, Peru and the Dominican Republic reported locally transmitted cases of the disease. The UKHSA report also shows a rise in travel-associated cholera cases in the UK, with eight cases in the first half of the year compared to just one in 2024. Most cases were linked with travel to India and Ethiopia. There was also a 67 per cent decrease in the number of dengue cases reported in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from January to June, and there were just four cases of zika virus during the period, down from nine in 2024.
The Independent
3 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
Officials urge caution on mosquito bites abroad amid rise in chikungunya cases
Health officials have urged people to take precautions against mosquito bites while on holiday amid a rise in cases of chikungunya among travellers returning from abroad. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also detected the first cases of the emerging disease oropouche virus in the UK, all of which were linked to travel from Brazil. Chikungunya is a virus spread by mosquito bites, the symptoms of which include a sudden fever and joint pain. According to UKHSA, most people recover within two weeks, although the joint pain can last for months or even years in some cases. Serious complications are not common, but in rare cases the disease can be fatal, particularly in very young or older people, or those with underlying health conditions. The latest travel-associated infections report from UKHSA shows there were 73 cases of chikungunya reported between January and June 2025, compared to 27 cases for the same period last year. The majority were linked to travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius. All cases were reported in England, primarily in London. There is currently no risk of onward transmission of chikungunya, as the two species of mosquito that transmit the disease are not established in the UK, UKHSA said. The illness mainly occurs in Africa and Asia, specifically southern Asia, although cases have been reported in Europe and parts of North America. However, this year there have been outbreaks in the Americas and Asia, with surges in China and the Indian Ocean islands of Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritius. 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.' Two chikungunya vaccines are approved for use in the UK and are available to buy after an assessment at a private travel clinic. Meanwhile, the first UK cases of oropouche virus, which is spread by midge bites, have been detected by UKHSA. The three cases were all associated with travel to Brazil. The flu-like illness can cause a fever, headaches, joint pain, muscle pain, chills, nausea and vomiting. Officials urged anyone who becomes unwell with these symptoms after travel to affected areas, including parts of Central and South America and the Caribbean, to seek urgent medical advice. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), before late 2023, oropouche virus was mostly reported near the Amazon rainforest area. However, in 2024, Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Guyana, Peru and the Dominican Republic reported locally transmitted cases of the disease. The UKHSA report also shows a rise in travel-associated cholera cases in the UK, with eight cases in the first half of the year compared to just one in 2024. Most cases were linked with travel to India and Ethiopia. There was also a 67% decrease in the number of dengue cases reported in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from January to June, and there were just four cases of zika virus during the period, down from nine in 2024.
Daily Mail
15-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Love Island star shares horrific near-death experience that left him in 'hell' while on holiday in Bali
Mitchell Eliot has opened up about contracting dengue fever while in Bali, revealing it's the 'closest to death' he's ever felt before. The Love Island star, who appeared on the fourth season of the reality TV series in 2018, took to TikTok on Monday to shed light on the terrifying experience while also warning fans to take the right precautions. 'The last three days have been hell,' the 28-year-old began while lying in bed shirtless. 'I had to get an ambulance in Bali to a hospital. I just had the worst fever, the worst body pains,' he told his fans. 'They reckon it was dengue fever, which is pretty much like malaria, and you get it from mosquito bites.' From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. He revealed that it took five nights before he started showing any symptoms after he was 'annihilated' by mosquitoes one night and woke up with around thirty bites. However, the influencer then went on to make a startling claim about the illness, revealing that he will battle with the repercussions for life. 'Apparently after you get it, you're sick for the rest of your life. Like you just randomly get sick and it's always in you,' he said. Mitchell then warned others who may be visiting Bali to use mosquito repellent and mosquito nets during their stay, as it wasn't worth the risk. Dengue fever is a viral illness contracted from mosquito bites, primarily in tropical and subtropical locations. While most people recover from the illness within seven days, severe cases can lead to Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever, a serious and potentially fatal condition. In April, Mitchell broke his silence following his split from Phoebe Spiller – revealing he was embracing a new chapter of self-discovery and sexual fluidity. The reality star, who found love with Phoebe on season four, didn't hold back when it came to speaking about his sexuality and personal growth during a revealing chat on the Sensory Overload podcast. The reality star didn't hold back when it came to speaking about his sexuality and personal growth during a revealing chat on the Sensory Overload podcast Opening up for the first time since the couple's shock split in July 2024, Mitch said he's finally giving himself permission to explore 'how I am' without pressure or labels. 'Sexuality is so beautiful, and I think people just need to loosen the f**k up,' he told podcast host Billy Barker. 'If you have these little thoughts, just explore different options. Even if that person is not your normal type, you could open a whole new world.' The former tradie-turned-influencer said the experience has been both confronting and freeing, noting that he's no longer afraid to be curious or question his identity. 'After my break-up, this is when I decided I'm going to be more open,' he shared. 'I've known deep down I wanted to be a bit more fluid, a bit more this and that… but I've never really acted on it much. This is just all about me figuring it out.' He added bluntly: 'Who gives a f**k who you f**k?' The Gold Coast native made it clear he doesn't feel the need to slap a label on his sexuality – despite the constant curiosity from fans. 'I get DMs from people now and people will be like, 'What's your sexuality?' he said. 'I'm like – it's none of your business first of all. And second of all, I don't believe we have to have a name for it. One day you can feel so straight, one day you can feel so queer.'
RNZ News
05-07-2025
- Sport
- RNZ News
Dengue scare hits Pacific Mini Games; athlete receives medical care, health alert issued
Palau's Health Ministry is asking everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Photo: Facebook / Office of the President, Republic of Palau Palau's Ministry of Health (MOH) has warned athletes and officials at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games to be cautious after a dengue fever case was reported on Friday, with an athlete admitted to the national hospital. The Mini Games Organising Committee said all safeguarding protocols for the athlete, teams, visitors and people of Palau have been activated. The Health Ministry is asking everyone to protect themselves as much as possible from mosquito bites. "One case of dengue fever has been detected amongst the athletes," the MOH statement said. "The case was detected through our enhanced health surveillance system, which is conducted daily to ensure early detection and rapid response to potential outbreaks. "The affected person is currently under medical care." But despite the setback, the competition continued in the different sports Saturday. Tahiti continues to lead the medal standings, with Samoa getting closer in second, following some impressive golden performances. Sunday was initially marked as a rest day but baseball teams will be competing, as organisers work on catching up with the schedule, following two days of competition being washed out on Monday and Tuesday. The features of day six were the 100-metre finals in both the men's and women's categories. Australia won the women's 100m final, with Kayedel Smith claiming first place ahead of Papua New Guinea's Isila Apkup and Fiji's Sera Nasilivata. Smith stopped the stop watch at the 12.16 seconds mark, with Apkup winning silver in a time of 12.17s, while Nasilivata took the bronze home, completing the race in 12.20s. The men's final saw Papua New Guinea's Pasil Wasil storming home to take the gold in a time of 10.51 seconds, ahead of teammate Tovetuna Tuna, who finished 0.02 seconds later than Wasil to claim silver. Fijian Waisake Tewa took the bronze medal. New Zealand-Tongan David Liti took three gold medals in the men's 110-kilogram weightlifting, with a total lift of 335kg. Fijian Reki Roberts proved to be the best heptathlon athlete, amassing a total of 4,250 points to win the gold. Raylyne Kanam of PNG won silver with 3,816 points while Tonga's Manatu Hafoka finished with the bronze. Her teammate Waisele Inoke claimed the top prize in the men's octathlon, totalling 5,336 points. Competition will take a break on Sunday, resuming on Monday with judo getting into action. At the end of day six (Saturday), Tahiti had totalled 53 gold, 32 silver and 18 bronze medals. Samoa has 27 gold medals to its name in second place on the medal tally, while Fiji is third ahead of Australia, with more silver medals won, atlhough both nations have 18 gold medals each. Fiji have 24 silver compared to Australia's eight silver so far. Papua New Guinea, who topped the medal tally at the 2022 Mini Games in Saipan, are currently sitting in fifth position with 11 gold, 17 silver and 16 bronze. Weightlifting competition has ended, along with table tennis, va'a, archery, swimming and wrestling. The closing ceremony is scheduled for 9 June. 2025 Pacific Mini Games medal tally at the end of day six of competitions on 5 July 2025. Photo: RNZ Pacific
