Mosquito warning for UK holidaymakers over malaria, dengue and Zika | UK | News
Holidaymakers have been told to protect themselves against mosquitoes. (Image: Getty)
British holidaymakers have been urged to protect themselves against mosquitoes when traveling abroad this summer after new figures revealed a rise in imported cases of the Zika virus and malaria. The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) said mosquito-borne infections can pose serious health risks and urged anyone traveling abroad to take precautions before and during travel.
Travelers are advised to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers, sleep under a medicated mosquito net when necessary, get recommended travel vaccinations and check whether anti-malarial tablets are required. Figures published by the UKHSA show eight cases of Zika virus were reported between January and June 2026, already exceeding the seven cases recorded in the whole of 2025. Four of the infections were linked to travel to Indonesia. Meanwhile, 137 cases of imported dengue fever were reported in the UK in the first six months of the year. Southeast Asia and South Asia remained the most common regions where people were infected; There were 27 cases in Thailand and 19 cases in the Maldives.
Mosquitoes can spread dengue fever and Zika virus. (Image: Getty)
By comparison, 161 cases of dengue fever were recorded as of the end of June last year, although infections generally rise later in the year.
A total of 59 cases of chikungunya were reported between January and June this year; In the same period of 2025, this number was 73. Sri Lanka was the country with the highest number of travel-related infections, with 18 cases.
Between January and May, 557 cases of malaria were reported in England, Wales and Northern Ireland; In the same period last year, this number was 548.
Dengue fever can cause flu-like symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint aches, and feeling sick.
UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist and Head of Travel Health Dr. Hilary Kirkbride said: “Summer is a popular time to travel; don’t let illness ruin your holiday. Good preparation and planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and advertising from us and our partners. You can check out whenever you want. Read our Privacy Policy
“Check the TravelHealthPro website for the latest health advice for your destination, including vaccinations you may need and important medications such as anti-malarial tablets. To protect against mosquito-borne infections, use insect repellent, cover exposed skin and sleep under a treated mosquito net when necessary. Make sure you take good food and water hygiene precautions for enteric fever and other stomach bugs.”
“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.
“There are special precautions you need to take if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, so please check with a doctor, nurse or local travel clinic before planning your trip.”
Symptoms of chikungunya include fever, joint pain, headache, muscle aches, joint swelling and rash.
Most people infected with Zika experience only mild illness. But it can be particularly dangerous during pregnancy and has been linked to miscarriage, stillbirth, and serious birth defects.
If left untreated, malaria can be fatal, with symptoms such as fever, vomiting and muscle aches.
