A significant increase in dengue fever cases has raised concerns among health authorities in the UK, with official data confirming a record-breaking number of infections imported into the country last year.
Record Spike in Cases
In 2024, the UK recorded 904 dengue fever cases, marking the highest figure ever reported.
This represents a 43% increase from the 631 cases reported in 2023 and is nearly ten times higher than the numbers seen in 2021.
Health officials have urged travelers to take preventive measures when visiting regions where dengue is prevalent.
Understanding Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a tropical disease transmitted by mosquito bites, often causing intense pain in the joints and muscles.
Symptoms can include sudden fever, severe headaches, eye pain, nausea, and vomiting.
The illness was once called “breakbone fever” due to the extreme discomfort it causes.
Symptoms typically appear four to ten days after a mosquito bite, meaning travelers may fall ill after returning home.
Rising Global Impact
The surge in cases has been linked to increasing travel, particularly from regions like South Asia — notably India — where dengue is common.
Additionally, outbreaks in South America, particularly Brazil, have contributed to the spike.
Health authorities also reported one case from Spain, highlighting the spread of the disease into Mediterranean areas.
Climate change, rising temperatures, and increased humidity are believed to be factors making more regions hospitable to dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
Preventive Measures for Travelers
Dr. Philip Veal from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advised travelers to take simple yet effective steps to avoid mosquito bites.
These include:
- Using insect repellents.
- Wearing clothing that covers exposed skin.
- Sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets.
Dr. Veal also recommended visiting the TravelHealthPro website for updated guidance on health risks and vaccinations before traveling.
Recognizing Severe Dengue
While most people recover from dengue within one to two weeks, some may develop severe dengue, a potentially fatal condition that affects about 5% of infected individuals.
Symptoms of severe dengue include:
- Intense stomach pain.
- Persistent vomiting.
- Rapid breathing.
- Bleeding gums or nose.
- Blood in vomit or stool.
- Extreme fatigue or restlessness.
Severe dengue symptoms often emerge 24 to 48 hours after the initial fever subsides, making it crucial for patients to seek urgent medical attention.
People displaying these signs are advised to contact emergency services or visit A&E immediately.
Who’s Most at Risk?
People who have previously contracted dengue are at higher risk of developing severe dengue if infected again.
The NHS also warns that vulnerable groups such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems should avoid traveling to high-risk areas.
Dengue’s Growing Presence in Europe
Although the UK itself is not currently considered at risk for local dengue transmission, mosquito species capable of spreading the virus have been identified in parts of the country.
European holiday destinations such as Croatia, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Madeira are now considered potential risk areas during warmer months.
Global Dengue Crisis
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were 6.5 million reported dengue cases worldwide in 2023, resulting in 7,300 deaths.
However, WHO modeling suggests that actual infection numbers could be as high as 390 million annually.
Staying Safe
With dengue infections continuing to rise, UK health officials stress the importance of preventive measures for travelers and early symptom recognition.
Anyone returning from an affected region who develops symptoms is advised to consult their GP or contact NHS 111 for urgent advice.