Mosquito -borne virus has a significant increase in the number of cases of UK which can cause sudden fever and joint pain and is usually found only in Africa and Southern Asia.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says that more than 70 cases of Chikungunya virus were reported in the first six months of this year, more than doubled compared to the same period last year – all of them were added to travel.
Chikunguniya, while rarely deadly, people may experience joint pain over years.
UKHSA is warning passengers to take precautions against mosquito bite.
In most cases, people recover completely within a few weeks, but for some, pain may continue for months or years.
In very rare cases it can be fatal.
While the 73 infections seen in the UK in the first six months of this year are not a large number, it is double the same in the same period last year.
Virus outbreaks are going on in the Indian Ocean region, and almost all infections were connected to India, Sri Lanka and Mauritius.
Chikungunya spreads by two types of mosquitoes, none of which exist in Britain, so there is no risk on further infection.
But Dr. Public Health Advisor at UKHSA. Philip Veel says that passengers warned to ensure that they take care against mosquito bites.
“Chikungunya can be a bad disease and we are seeing a worrying growth in cases among travelers returning to Britain.
“This is necessary to take precautions against mosquito bites while traveling.
“Simple steps, such as using insect disturbances, covering your skin and sleeping under insecticid bed nets can greatly reduce the risk.
“Before traveling, see the Travel Health Pro website for the latest advice on your destination.
“A chikungunya vaccine can also be considered for those traveling to high -risk areas.”
The same report also states that the UK cases before the original virus, usually found only in Central and South America and Caribbean, have also been detected in passengers returning from Brazil.
The virus is mainly spread by mood cutting instead of mosquitoes, including the main types of miz involved in transmission found in Europe or UK.
Symptoms include high fever, chills, headache, joint pain and muscle pain.
UKHSA warns an increase in infection of the Oropoche virus globally from 2024, and says that pregnant travelers should take special care After some concerns The virus may have an effect during pregnancy.
