Travellers heading overseas during the Easter break and spring travel period have been urged to take precautions against mosquito-borne infections. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned that while cases of dengue fever have fallen, chikungunya cases in England are at their highest point for more than a decade. Malaria cases in returning travellers also remain at a high level. Symptoms of chikungunya infection include a sudden onset of fever, usually accompanied by joint pain.

While most people recover fully within one to two weeks, joint pain can persist for months or even years. In rare cases, the disease can be fatal, with the very young, older adults and those with other underlying illnesses at greatest risk. Dr Philip Veal, consultant in public health at UKHSA, said: "For some people chikungunya can be a prolonged and nasty disease and we continue to see cases in travellers returning to the UK, particularly from parts of Asia and the Indian Ocean region.

“While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes.

“Thankfully, symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer. So, it is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling.”

A total of 160 chikungunya infections were reported in England and Wales in 2025, the highest annual total since 2014.

All infections were linked to travel, with the majority in people who had been to Sri Lanka (75 cases), India (17 cases) and Bangladesh (16 cases).

Some 1,629 cases of malaria were recorded in the UK in 2025, down from from 1,812 in 2024.

Dr Dipti Patel, director of the National Travel Health Network and Centre, said: "If you’re travelling over Easter or spring, it’s important that you prepare before you travel, and take precautions against mosquito bites.

“Simple steps such as using a DEET based insect repellent, covering-up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk.

“Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro website for the latest advice on your destination.

“If chikungunya is a risk at your destination, you may wish to discuss the suitability of chikungunya vaccination with a travel health clinic."