Holidaymakers Urged Caution as Deadly Mosquito Viruses Rise in Hotspots
Sophie Turner
British tourists are being warned of a significant increase in mosquito-borne diseases, including Zika and dengue, in popular holiday destinations. Health officials advise travellers to take precautions to avoid illness this summer.
- Zika virus cases reported in the UK from January to June 2026 (8 cases) have already surpassed the total for all of 2025 (7 cases).
- Dengue fever cases remain high, with 137 imported cases in England from January to June 2026, many linked to South-East Asia and South Asia.
- The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recommends using insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and checking vaccination and anti-malarial requirements.
- Typhoid and paratyphoid cases, spread through contaminated food or water, also saw 287 reports in the first half of 2026.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has sounded a warning for British holidaymakers heading abroad this summer, citing a significant rise in mosquito-borne illnesses in popular destinations. Cases of diseases such as Zika virus and dengue fever are on the increase, prompting travellers to take precautions.
Between January and June 2026, eight cases of Zika virus were reported in the UK, exceeding the seven recorded throughout all of 2025. Notably, four of these recent cases were linked to travel in Indonesia. Dengue fever remains a concern, with 137 imported cases reported in England during the same period.
South-East Asia and South Asia are the most common regions for contracting dengue, with 27 cases traced back to Thailand and 19 to the Maldives. Chikungunya also saw 59 cases reported from January to June this year, with Sri Lanka identified as the most frequently reported country of travel, accounting for 18 cases.
Malaria cases in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland reached 557 from January to May, a slight increase from 548 cases reported by the same point last year. Additionally, 287 cases of typhoid and paratyphoid fever were reported between January and June this year, typically spread through contaminated food or water.
UKHSA's Dr Hilary Kirkbride stresses the importance of good preparation and planning for a safe trip, advising travellers to consult the TravelHealthPro website for destination-specific health advice. To mitigate mosquito-borne infection risks, UKHSA recommends using effective insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under treated bed nets when necessary.
Why this matters: The rise in mosquito-borne diseases directly impacts British holidaymakers, posing significant health risks and potentially disrupting travel plans to popular destinations. Understanding these risks is crucial for a safe summer abroad.
What this means for you: What this means for you: If you are planning a holiday to South-East Asia, South Asia, or other tropical regions, you should invest in good quality insect repellent (e.g., DEET-based), pack appropriate clothing to cover exposed skin, and consider consulting your GP or a travel clinic for advice on vaccinations and anti-malarial tablets. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation is highly recommended, especially given the potential severity of some of these illnesses. Always check FCO travel warnings for your specific destination.