Chikungunya in the UK: Essential Facts for Travelers About This Mosquito-Borne Virus

The UK's Health Security Agency advises travelers going abroad to take precautions against developing Chikungunya, a potentially serious viral infection transmitted mainly by Aedes mosquitoes. Recent data shows a rise in cases among UK travelers, with 73 reports in England during the first half of 2025, compared to 27 cases in the same period last year. These cases are linked to visits to regions experiencing ongoing outbreaks, such as Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius.

Chikungunya is caused by the Chikungunya virus and is primarily spread by mosquitoes that breed in standing water close to human dwellings. Unlike malaria-carrying mosquitoes, Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day.

Symptoms typically appear 4 to 8 days after a bite and include a sudden high fever accompanied by severe joint pain. Additional symptoms may include joint swelling, muscle aches, headaches, nausea, fatigue, and rashes. While joint pain can resolve in days, it may persist for weeks, months, or even years in some cases.

Most infections are mild and resolve without medical intervention, but severe joint pain can be long-lasting. Fatalities are rare and mostly occur among older adults or individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for Chikungunya; management focuses on symptom relief using medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen. Preventing mosquito bites is crucial. This includes using insect repellents, wearing long, loose-fitting clothing, and avoiding peak mosquito activity times.

Vaccination is available and recommended for travelers to high-risk areas. In the UK, two vaccines—Vimkunya and IXCHIQ—are approved. Vimkunya is suitable for those aged 12 and above, while IXCHIQ is for ages 18 to 59. The use of IXCHIQ has been temporarily suspended for those over 65 due to safety concerns.

Controlling mosquito populations is also vital. Measures include covering water containers, removing objects that collect water, and avoiding breeding sites like old tires. Evidence supporting the effectiveness of chemical or biological mosquito control methods is limited.

Given the increasing number of cases linked to international travel and outbreaks in regions like France and Italy, travelers should remain cautious. Outbreaks in Reunion Island, a French overseas territory, have resulted in over 47,500 cases and 12 deaths, indicating ongoing risks.

With the recent heat waves in Europe raising the likelihood of local transmission, especially if temperatures stay high for extended periods, it is essential for travelers and residents alike to follow preventive advice. While the risk of local transmission in the UK remains low, continued vigilance is recommended.

To stay safe, particularly for individuals over 60 or those with existing health issues, avoiding mosquito bites and considering vaccination before travel is advised. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking medical advice can help manage the illness effectively.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-chikungunya-uk-mosquito-borne-virus.html