The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has revealed that travel-associated mosquito-borne infections are on the rise, approaching pre-pandemic levels. This concerning trend includes
diseases such as dengue, malaria, and Zika, emphasizing the importance of travelers taking necessary precautions to minimize health risks while abroad. Cases have been confirmed in various parts of the UK among individuals who recently returned from overseas trips.
In 2023, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland collectively reported 634 cases of dengue among returning travelers, closely aligning with pre-pandemic levels seen in 2019, when 790 cases were documented. Most cases of dengue in 2023 were contracted in Southern Asia and South-Eastern Asia, particularly in India. However, there has been a notable increase in cases acquired in Central America and the Caribbean due to recent outbreaks in these regions. Globally, the World Health Organization reported a significant surge in dengue cases in 2023, with over five million cases and 5,000 deaths reported worldwide.
Similarly, malaria cases in England from January to October 2023 totaled 1,637, mirroring pre-pandemic levels observed in 2019, when 1,719 cases were reported. This trend closely corresponds with the global malaria situation, as the World Health Organization estimated 249 million cases in 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 16 million compared to 2019.
Despite lower numbers, eight cases of Zika were reported in England in 2023, consistent with the previous year. Although Zika cases are relatively low, the infection poses significant risks to pregnant women and those planning to conceive.
Symptoms of mosquito-borne infections include fever, severe headaches, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and vomiting.
To mitigate the risk of these infections, the UKHSA advises travelers to take precautionary measures such as using insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and sleeping under treated bed nets, particularly in regions where diseases like dengue, malaria, or Zika are prevalent.
Furthermore, travelers should consult the Travel Health Pro website for comprehensive information on health risks in specific countries and seek advice from healthcare professionals, including GPs, practice nurses, pharmacists, or travel clinics, at least 4 to 6 weeks before traveling. This allows for individualized recommendations, travel vaccines, and malaria prevention measures tailored to the destination.
In addition, individuals aged 4 years and older with a history of dengue infection are advised to consider vaccination before traveling to areas at risk of dengue transmission. They can discuss vaccination options with their local travel health clinic.
Dr. Philip Veal, a Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, emphasizes the importance of taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of infections during travel, highlighting simple steps such as using insect repellent and accessing up-to-date health information on the TravelHealthPro website.
Dr. Dipti Patel, Director of the National Travel Health Network and Centre, encourages travelers to prioritize their health by seeking relevant information and vaccinations before traveling. Additionally, travelers should remain vigilant upon returning to the UK and seek medical attention if feeling unwell, especially if they have recently traveled.
In conclusion, travelers are reminded to ensure that routine childhood vaccinations are up to date, stock up on necessary medications, and obtain valid travel insurance to cover their entire trip. Furthermore, individuals are urged to be aware of the risks associated with measles and ensure that all family members, particularly children, are fully vaccinated against measles with both doses of MMR before traveling to high-risk areas. Photo by Mike Quinn, Wikimedia commons.