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Record Number of Imported Dengue Fever Cases in Britain
A record number of imported dengue fever cases were reported in Britain last year, according to new official figures. The data reveals a significant increase in instances of the tropical mosquito-borne illness, highlighting the need for heightened awareness among travellers. These figures represent the highest levels ever documented in the UK, prompting health officials to issue guidance on preventative measures.
Surge in Dengue Cases
The incidence of this tropical disease, recognised for causing severe joint and muscle pain, has dramatically risen in the UK. In 2024, the number of dengue fever cases reached 904, marking an unprecedented peak. This surge underscores the growing risk for travellers visiting regions where dengue fever is prevalent and returning to Britain with the infection.
Public Health Advice for Travellers
In light of these elevated numbers, health authorities are strongly advising individuals traveling abroad to adopt precautionary measures to minimise the risk of contracting the virus. The infection is transmitted through mosquito bites, making preventative steps crucial for those visiting affected areas.
Expert Recommendations for Dengue Prevention
Dr Philip Veal, a public health expert at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), emphasized the importance of simple yet effective preventative measures:
- Insect repellent: Regular use of insect repellent can significantly reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites.
- Skin coverage: Wearing clothing that covers exposed skin, especially during peak mosquito activity times, is recommended.
- Insecticide-treated bed nets: Sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets provides a barrier against mosquitoes, particularly during nighttime hours.
Dr. Veal further advised, ‘Prior to departure, it is essential to consult the TravelHealthPro website for the most up-to-date health advice concerning your destination. This includes any recommended vaccinations and specific risks associated with the region.’ He added, ‘Even for frequent travellers to certain countries, it’s crucial to remember that you do not possess the same level of immunity as permanent residents and remain susceptible to infections.’
Dengue Fever Symptoms
Individuals with dengue fever often experience a sudden fever, followed by intense headache, discomfort behind the eyes, joint and musclePain, nausea, and vomiting. The historical term for dengue fever, ‘breakbone fever’ from the 18th century, reflects the excruciating pain associated with the illness, likened to bones fracturing.
Dengue Transmission and Severity
Dengue fever is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. However, it is important to note that transmission can also occur through exposure to infected blood. The severity of dengue fever can vary, and in some cases, it can be fatal if left untreated, underscoring the importance of prompt medical attention.
Timeline of Symptoms and UK Case Increase
Symptoms of dengue fever generally appear between four and ten days after a bite from an infected mosquito. This incubation period means that holidaymakers frequently become unwell after returning to the UK. The reported cases of dengue in the UK for 2024 represent a 43 percent increase compared to the 631 cases in the previous year and nearly tenfold the figures from 2021.
Origin of Imported Cases
The UKHSA reported that the majority of imported cases, approximately one-third, were linked to travel from South Asia, notably India. Furthermore, a significant rise was observed in cases among travellers returning from South America, attributed to widespread outbreaks in Brazil. Notably, health officials also indicated that one patient diagnosed with the virus had recently travelled from Spain.
Expansion of Dengue Risk Areas
While traditionally prevalent in Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia, experts have issued warnings that climate change is rendering the Mediterranean region increasingly hospitable for mosquito species that carry dengue fever. This suggests a potential expansion of at-risk areas for travellers.
Global Surge Post-Pandemic
According to the UKHSA, the record-breaking dengue fever cases in Britain are part of a global resurgence of the disease following the pandemic. They stated, ‘Various factors, including climate change, shifts in mosquito distribution, and periodic weather events leading to increased temperatures, heavy rainfall, and humidity, are contributing to this global rise.’
Actionable Advice for Symptomatic Individuals
Britons experiencing dengue fever symptoms after being in regions where the disease is common are urged to contact their general practitioner (GP) or NHS 111 for an immediate consultation. This urgency stems from the risk of potentially life-threatening complications that can emerge as individuals begin to recover from the initial phase of the illness.
Severe Dengue: A Critical Condition
While most individuals with dengue fever recover within one to two weeks, a subset may develop a more severe and dangerous form of the infection known as ‘severe dengue’. This life-threatening condition affects an estimated one to five percent of those infected with the virus. Experts estimate that severe dengue is fatal in approximately half of cases.
Symptoms of Severe Dengue
Signs of severe dengue include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Rapid breathing
- Bleeding gums
- Nosebleeds
- Extreme fatigue
- Restlessness
- Blood in vomit or faeces
These severe symptoms typically manifest 24 to 48 hours after the initial dengue fever symptoms subside and the individual starts to feel better. Severe dengue constitutes a medical emergency, and individuals experiencing these symptoms are advised to call 999 or proceed to the Accident & Emergency (A&E) department without delay.
Risk of Repeat Infections
Individuals who have previously contracted dengue fever are at a higher risk of developing severe dengue in the event of subsequent infections.
Dengue Risk in Europe
The NHS now cautions travellers that dengue fever poses a risk in popular European holiday destinations, including Croatia, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Madeira, particularly between spring and November.
Vulnerable Groups and Travel Advice
It is also advised that individuals more vulnerable to dengue fever, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, should avoid traveling to areas where the virus is present.
Dengue Risk in the UK
Currently, dengue transmission is not considered a risk within the UK, although mosquitoes capable of carrying the virus have been detected in the wild in Britain in the past. Typically, direct person-to-person transmission of dengue does not occur. However, mosquitoes biting an infected person can then transmit the virus to others. Rare instances of dengue transmission through infected blood contact, such as transfusions or organ donation, have been documented.
Global Dengue Statistics
Globally, approximately 6.5 million cases of dengue fever were reported in 2023, with 7,300 resulting in fatalities, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). However, WHO modelling suggests the actual number of annual infections is closer to 390 million.