Holiday health warning after hundreds of British tourists return home with 18th century vomiting virus

BRITS planning their holidays are being warned about concerning levels of dengue fever.

Some 634 infections were spotted in travellers coming back to England, Wales and Northern Ireland last year, according to the UK Health Security Agency.

The virus, which causes vomiting, rashes and headaches, was first spotted in the 18th century.

It is now most prevalent in south and southeast Asia, particularly India, as well as Central America and the Caribbean.

Health bosses also warned of increasing levels of malaria and Zika virus in returning travellers.

It comes after the World Health Organization issued a warning over an “unprecedented” surge in dengue over the past 20 years.

Dr Philip Veal, of the UKHSA, said: “As travel has increased following the lifting of travel restrictions during the pandemic, so have serious mosquito borne infections. 

“There are simple steps that people can take to reduce the risk of infections such as malaria, dengue and Zika. 

“Prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellent, covering exposed skin and sleeping under a treated bed net. 

“Plan ahead and visit the TravelHealthPro website to look up your destination and the latest health information and advice. 

“Even if you have visited or lived in a country before, you will not have the same protection against infections as local people and are still at risk.”

Dengue fever is caused by a member of the Flaviviridae family of viruses, and is transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

The earliest descriptions of an outbreak surfaced in the late 1700s.

Further outbreaks occurred in the 19th century, before becoming more widespread in the last 150 years.

Today, this virus is responsible for more disease and deaths than any other illness spread to people by insects, according to Dengue Virus Disease.

About half of the world’s population is now at risk, with 100 to 400million infections occurring each year, the WHO estimates.

If you feel unwell, seek medical attention and ensure you inform your healthcare provider that you have been travelling recently

Dr Dipti PatelNational Travel Health Network and Centre

Last year’s infection count in England, Wales and Northern Ireland aligned “closely with those in 2019” before the Covid pandemic, according to the UKHSA.

A total of 1637 malaria cases were confirmed in England from January to October 2023.

Eight Zika cases were reported in England in 2023 – a similar level to 2022, officials said.

Dr Dipti Patel, of the National Travel Health Network and Centre, said: “If you are making plans to travel abroad this year, please take a moment to prioritise your health and plan ahead. 

“Check the relevant country information pages on our website, TravelHealthPro.

“Ideally speak to your GP or a travel health clinic four to six weeks ahead of travelling to ensure you have had all the necessary vaccinations and advice you need to ensure your trip is a happy and healthy one.

“When you return to the UK, if you feel unwell, seek medical attention and ensure you inform your healthcare provider that you have been travelling recently.”