UK Sees 43% Surge in Chikungunya Cases Linked to Travel

UK health authorities report a sharp rise in chikungunya infections. Cases climbed to 160 in 2025, compared with 112 the year before, marking the highest level on record. Most patients were travellers returning from Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh. The mosquito-borne virus spread by Aedes species causes fever, severe joint pain, headaches and skin rashes. While most people recover within weeks, some experience joint pain that can last months or even years. Experts from the UK Health Security Agency and the National Travel Health Network advise travellers to use DEET-based repellents, cover exposed skin and sleep under insecticide-treated nets. They also recommend checking up-to-date travel health guidance and exploring available vaccines. Rising temperatures and increased travel have allowed chikungunya to spread into parts of southern Europe. Meanwhile, imported malaria remains high in the UK, and dengue cases have declined significantly.

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