New Holiday Health Alert: Countries with High Disease Risk

A surge in holidaymakers falling ill has prompted health authorities to issue a warning to travelers.

According to recent data, there has been a significant increase in travel-related infections, particularly those transmitted by mosquitoes, such as chikungunya virus.

In addition to chikungunya, health officials are also warning about consistently high levels of malaria, another disease spread by infected mosquitoes, although there has been a decrease in dengue cases.

The latest report from the UK Health Security Agency reveals a 43% rise in chikungunya infections in 2025, with most cases linked to travel to Sri Lanka, India, and Bangladesh.

In 2025, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland reported 160 cases of chikungunya, up from 112 in 2024, with the majority of those infected having traveled to these high-risk countries.

Mosquitoes are the primary carriers of these diseases, which can cause severe symptoms, including fever, joint pain, and headaches.

While dengue cases decreased to 344 in 2025, down from 904 in 2024, the number of malaria cases remains high, with 1,629 reported in 2025, highlighting the need for continued vigilance.

Malaria is a potentially life-threatening disease that can cause symptoms such as fever, chills, and difficulty breathing, and is commonly found in certain parts of the world.

Dr. Philip Veal, a public health consultant, warns that chikungunya can be a prolonged and severe illness, especially for some individuals, and advises travelers to take precautions against mosquito bites.

The symptoms of these diseases can be severe and long-lasting, making it essential for travelers to take preventive measures, such as using insect repellents and wearing protective clothing.

Dr. Dipti Patel, director of the National Travel Health Network and Centre, emphasizes the importance of preparation and precautions when traveling, especially during peak mosquito seasons.

Travelers can reduce their risk of infection by taking simple steps, such as using Deet-based insect repellents, covering their skin, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets.

Before embarking on a trip, it is crucial to check the latest travel health advice and consider consulting a travel health clinic, especially if chikungunya vaccination is recommended for the destination.

As of early 2026, certain regions and countries have been identified as high-risk areas for malaria, dengue, and chikungunya, with Sub-Saharan Africa being the most affected by malaria.

Dengue is the most widespread of the three diseases and can be found in urban and residential areas, while chikungunya often occurs in outbreaks, particularly in areas with high mosquito populations.

Although Europe is not typically considered a high-risk zone, the expansion of the Asian Tiger mosquito has increased the risk of contracting these diseases in recent years.

In Europe, the risk of infection is higher in certain countries, particularly during the summer and early autumn months, when mosquito populations are more prevalent.

Malaria and dengue are often grouped together, as they are transmitted by the same mosquito, which has established itself in over 13 European countries.

Transmission of these diseases in Europe usually occurs during the summer and early autumn, with most cases being linked to specific categories, rather than being caught from a wild mosquito.

Travelers should be aware of the risks associated with these diseases and take necessary precautions to minimize their chances of infection, especially when visiting high-risk areas.

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