UKHSA travel illness warning as more than 1,000 cases so far this year

UKHSA travel illness warning as more than 1,000 cases so far this year Anyone planning a trip abroad should make an important check in advance Brits have been urged to stay safe while abroad as new data shows more than 1,000 travel-associated illnesses have been recorded so far this year. Illnesses include malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus. Measures such as getting vaccinated, taking malaria tablets, and practising good hygiene can all help to prevent sickness. An update from Travel Health Pro shared the latest information from the UKHSA. Between January and June 2026 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (EWNI): - Eight Zika virus cases were reported - A total of 59 chikungunya cases were reported - A total of 557 malaria cases were reported in EWNI (from January to May) - A total of 287 travel-associated enteric fever cases (typhoid and paratyphoid fever) were reported - 137 cases of dengue were reported in England Zika virus Zika virus is mainly spread by mosquitoes found in some parts of the world including South and Central America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia. For most people it's mild and not harmful, but it can cause problems if you're pregnant. A total of eight Zika virus cases were reported. Indonesia was the most frequently reported country of exposure (four cases). Between 2014 and 2025, only one travel-associated case linked to Indonesia had been reported, which occurred in 2024. Chikungunya Chikungunya is also a mosquito-borne infection. It is characterised by a sudden onset of fever often accompanied by joint pain. A total of 59 chikungunya cases were reported, with Sri Lanka being the most commonly reported country of travel (18 cases). Malaria Malaria is a serious infection spread by mosquitoes found in some parts of the world. You can die from it if it's not diagnosed and treated quickly. A total of 557 malaria cases were reported in EWNI from January to May 2026. Enteric fever This is an infection spread through unclean food or water. It can cause serious problems if not treated. A total of 287 travel-associated enteric fever cases (typhoid and paratyphoid fever) were reported. In recent years, the highest number of enteric fever cases has been recorded between May and October. Dengue fever Dengue is an infection spread by mosquitoes. It's not usually serious and often gets better on its own. A total of 137 cases of dengue were reported in England. South-East Asia and South Asia remain the most common regions for exposure: 27 cases were linked to travel to Thailand and 19 to the Maldives. In light of these statistics, Dr Hilary Kirkbride, consultant epidemiologist and head of travel health at the UKHSA, said: “Summer is a popular time to travel – don’t let illness spoil your holidays. Good preparation and planning is important for a safe and enjoyable trip. “Check the TravelHealthPro website for the latest health advice for your destination, including which vaccines you may need and any important medications, such as antimalarial tablets. To protect against mosquito borne infections use insect repellent, cover exposed skin and sleep under a treated bed net where needed. For enteric fever and other stomach bugs make sure you take good food and water hygiene precautions. “Even if you have visited a country before, you do not have the same level of natural protection against infections as permanent residents, so it is important to take precautions every time you travel. And if you are pregnant or trying to conceive there are special precautions you should take, so please speak to a doctor, nurse or local travel clinic before planning your trip.” For health advice while travelling, visit the Travel Health Pro website here.