FESTIVE travellers are being reminded to take precautions against serious mosquito-borne infections if they are travelling abroad.
The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows a significant rise in travel-related infections like dengue and malaria.
Cases of malaria rose by 57% in the East Midlands between 2022 and 2023. There were 96 reported cases in 2023, compared with 41 reported cases in 2022 and 27 in 2021.
There were also 18 reported cases of dengue fever in the East Midlands between January and June 2024.
These infections, which can cause serious illness, were confirmed among individuals returning from abroad.
Dr Laura French from Leicester City Council’s public health team said: “If you’re planning on travelling abroad during the festive break, it’s important to ensure your vaccinations are up to date. Have a look at the Travel Health Pro website for the country you are travelling to for advice. You can also talk to a specialist travel health clinic, a pharmacy or your GP surgery for advice.
“Malaria is a serious, mosquito-borne infection that can be fatal. It’s almost completely preventable by taking medication and avoiding mosquito bites. It is important to remember that, even if you have visited a country before or lived there previously, you won’t have the same level of resistance to infection as someone who lives there all the time and you will need to take precautions against malaria.
“When you get back to the UK, if you feel unwell, seek medical attention and make sure you mention your recent travel.”
The TravelHealthPro website has information on health risks in countries across the world and is a one-stop-shop for information to help people plan their trip abroad.
In countries with insects that spread diseases like dengue, malaria or Zika virus infection and Oropouche virus disease, travellers can protect themselves by using insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bed net where air conditioning is not available.
It is also important for travellers to:
- ensure your routine childhood vaccines are up to date
- have any recommended travel-related vaccines for your destination
- stock up on necessary medications including malaria prevention tablets
- get valid travel insurance to cover your entire trip and planned activities
For more details on avoiding mosquito bites, watch Mosquito bite avoidance – advice for travellers on the UKHSA Youtube Channel.
ENDS