Chikungunya travel advisory

UK health authorities warn of a rise in chikungunya infections among travellers and urge bite prevention as the virus spreads globally.

Chikungunya cases rise among travelers in UK

Data from the UK Health Security Agency shows 73 chikungunya cases in England between January and June 2025, up from 27 in the same period last year. Most cases involve travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius, and all were reported in England, mainly in London. The report also notes the first UK cases of oropouche virus linked to travel from Brazil.

Officials say there is currently no risk of onward transmission in the UK because the mosquito species that spread chikungunya are not established here. The illness is typically found in Africa and Asia, but cases have appeared in Europe and North America. The World Health Organization warns that the virus is spreading and could become endemic in parts of Europe if temperatures rise further. It has urged urgent action to limit spread.

Travel related infections test the limits of public health. A warming climate and more international travel mean outbreaks can move faster and farther. The UK remains a buffer today, but that buffer can shrink if local mosquitoes adapt to new conditions. Public health systems should invest in surveillance and clear guidance without causing alarm.

Policy and funding will shape the response. Strong local action on vector control, better data sharing and sustained funding for labs and health services will determine whether rising cases translate into real risk for communities. Global coordination matters as much as local vigilance.

Highlights

Public health vigilance must match the pace of global spread as travel and climate change reshape risks.