UK health officials raise alarm over sharp rise in cases of killer virus that makes body ‘fold in on itself’

Friday, March 27, 2026 - Health officials in the UK have warned of a sharp rise in cases of Chikungunya, with infections linked to travel increasing by 43 per cent in 2025.

The UK Health Security Agency said cases across England, Wales and Northern Ireland rose to 160 in 2025, up from 112 the previous year, marking the highest level recorded. Most infections were reported in travellers returning from countries such as Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh.

The mosquito-borne virus, spread by infected Aedes species, can cause severe joint pain, fever, headaches, muscle pain and skin rashes. While most people recover within weeks, some suffer prolonged joint pain lasting months or even years.

Dr Philip Veal of the UKHSA said: “For some people chikungunya can be a prolonged and nasty disease… While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes.”

Health experts are urging travellers to take precautions, especially during holiday periods such as Easter.

Dr Dipti Patel of the National Travel Health Network and Centre outlined key protective steps: “Prepare before you travel, and take precautions against mosquito bites. Simple steps such as using a Deet-based insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk.”

Officials also advised checking travel health guidance before trips and consulting clinics about potential vaccinations where appropriate. The warning comes as the virus spreads to new regions, including parts of southern Europe such as France and Italy, driven by rising temperatures and increased travel.

Meanwhile, health authorities noted that Malaria cases remain consistently high in the UK, with 1,629 imported infections recorded in 2025, although slightly down from the previous year.

At the same time, cases of Dengue have declined significantly. Researchers warn that warming climates are allowing mosquito species such as Aedes albopictus, also known as the tiger mosquito, to expand across Europe, increasing the risk of outbreaks in traditionally cooler regions.