UK cases of mosquito-borne chikungunya virus more than double
There has been a significant increase in the number of England cases of a mosquito -induced virus, which could cause sudden fever and joint pain, only in Africa and South Asia.
The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) says that more than 70 Chikungunia virus cases have been reported more than twice the same period last year – they are all connected to travel.
Although Chikungunya rarely let people have people with joint pain for years.
Ukhsa warns passengers to take precautions against mosquito bites.
In most cases, people will heal completely within a few weeks, but for some pain can continue for months or even years.
It can be fatal in very rare cases.
Although 73 infections in the UK in the first six months of this year are not a major number, in the same period of the previous year, more than twice the 27 cases.
In the Indian Ocean region, an outbreak of the virus continues, and almost all infections were linked to traveling in India, Sri Lanka and Mauritius.
Chikungunia spread by two types of mosquitoes, both in the UK, therefore there is no risk of advanced infection.
However, Dr. Philip Veal, a public health consultant in Ukhsa, says that there is a warning to travelers to ensure that they have taken precautions against mosquito bites.
“Chikungunia may be a bad disease, and we see an worrying increase in cases between travelers returning to England.
“When traveling, it is important to take precautions against mosquito bites.
“Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering your skin and sleeping under the insect bed networks can greatly reduce the risk.
“Before traveling, check the Travel Health Pro website for the latest advice on your goal.
“For those traveling to higher risk areas, a Chikungunia vaccine can also be considered.”
The same report also states that the first cases of the first orropouche virus in the Central and South America and the Caribbean are also detected in travelers returning from Brazil.
This virus is predominantly spread with midge bites instead of mosquitoes, the main midge type that is included in the infection that is not found in Europe or England.
Symptoms include high fever, tremor, headache, joint pain and muscle pain.
Since 2024, UKHSA warns an increase in orropouche virus infections globally and says that pregnant travelers should pay particular attention Follow some concerns About the effect that the virus may cause during pregnancy.
