The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a health warning for British travelers returning from popular holiday destinations like Thailand, Brazil, and India. This alert comes after a significant increase in chikungunya virus cases reported in the UK, a mosquito-borne infection. In 2024, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland saw 112 confirmed and probable chikungunya cases, marking a nearly 150% rise compared to the previous year. This surge highlights the ongoing global spread of the virus and the heightened risk for vacationers.[travelandtourworld+1]
Rising Cases Prompt UK Warning
The number of chikungunya cases among UK travelers continues to climb. Between January and June 2025, the UK reported 73 cases, a considerable jump from just 27 cases during the same period in 2024. A significant portion of these cases originated from individuals traveling to India, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius. London alone confirmed 42 chikungunya cases between January and June 2025, indicating a localized impact of returning travelers. The UKHSA emphasizes the importance of awareness and protective measures for anyone visiting or returning from these affected regions.[vax-before-travel+6]
Chikungunya outbreaks are currently active in several parts of the world. In Brazil, cases continue to be reported across all regions. By November 2025, South America recorded 291,066 chikungunya cases and 201 associated deaths, with Brazil accounting for the highest numbers. More specifically, Brazil reported 247,268 cases and 120 deaths for the entire year of 2025 as of December 20. India has also seen substantial numbers, with 30,876 suspected cases and 1,741 confirmed cases reported between January and March 2025. States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu registered the highest confirmed infections during this period. Chikungunya has become endemic throughout India as of 2024, with 192,343 cases in 2024 and 200,064 in 2023. Thailand also reported 1,128 cases between January and September 2025, with Chiang Mai, Bueng Kan, and Loei provinces most affected. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists Brazil, India, and Thailand as countries where travelers face an elevated risk of exposure to the virus, even when no specific outbreak is officially declared.[ecdc+6]
Understanding Chikungunya: Symptoms and Spread
Chikungunya virus spreads through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. These mosquitoes are most active during daylight hours, particularly around dawn and dusk. Unlike malaria, chikungunya is not transmitted directly from person to person. After an infected mosquito bite, symptoms typically appear within 3 to 7 days, though this can range from 4 to 8 days.[gov+8]
The most common symptoms are a sudden onset of high fever and severe joint pain, known as arthralgia. This joint pain can be extremely debilitating and may persist for several months or even years in some patients. Up to 12% of individuals may still experience discomfort three years after their initial infection. Other common symptoms include muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, joint swelling, and a rash. While serious complications are rare, occurring in approximately one in every 1,000 cases, certain groups face higher risks. These include young babies, elderly individuals, and adults with pre-existing health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease. Deaths from chikungunya are uncommon but can occur in these vulnerable populations.[gov+18]
Protecting Yourself Abroad and After Return
Preventing mosquito bites is the most crucial step in avoiding chikungunya infection, as there is no specific antiviral treatment for the disease. Travelers should use insect repellents that contain DEET or picaridin on all exposed skin. It is also advisable to wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that covers the arms and legs, especially during early morning and evening hours when Aedes mosquitoes are most active. If you are also using sunscreen, apply the repellent after the sunscreen.[gov+12]
Travelers should also take precautions in their accommodation. Ensure that hotel rooms have effective mosquito screens or air conditioning to reduce indoor mosquito exposure. Avoiding areas with stagnant water, such as pools of standing water in gutters or discarded items, can help reduce exposure risk, as these are common breeding grounds for mosquitoes.[travelandtourworld+3]
If you return from an affected region and develop symptoms such as fever or joint pain, it is important to seek medical attention quickly. Inform your doctor about your recent travel history to areas where Aedes mosquitoes are prevalent, as this information is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment. There is no specific antiviral medication for chikungunya, so treatment focuses on supportive care, including rest, adequate fluids, and pain relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol (acetaminophen) can help manage fever and pain. However, avoid aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen until dengue fever has been ruled out, as these can increase the risk of bleeding.[travelandtourworld+13]
Vaccine Availability and Important Advice
Two chikungunya vaccines, IXCHIQ® and Vimkunya®, have recently received approval for use in the UK for certain travelers. These vaccines are designed to provide protection against the infection. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) provides guidance on their use.[gov+3]
However, there are specific considerations for these vaccines. As of July 2025, the use of IXCHIQ® is temporarily suspended for individuals aged 65 years and older due to a safety review by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). It is also not recommended for people with a history of thymus disorders. Vimkunya can be offered to individuals aged 12 and over, while IXCHIQ is suitable for immunocompetent individuals aged 18 to 59 years. Travelers should consult a healthcare professional before their trip to discuss their risk and determine if vaccination is appropriate for their specific travel plans and health profile. Staying informed about the latest health advisories from the UK Health Security Agency and the World Health Organization is always recommended before traveling.[gov+6]
