UK Issues Urgent Alert as Deadly ‘Bone Breaker’ Virus Cases Hit Record High

Record Dengue Cases in UK Linked to Travel and Climate Change

A record 904 dengue fever cases were imported into the UK in 2024, the highest ever recorded, according to official data. The surge marks a 43% increase from 2023 and a tenfold rise since 2021. Dengue, a mosquito-borne virus causing severe joint pain, fever, and vomiting, is spreading globally, with climate change expanding the habitat of disease-carrying mosquitoes.

Rising Risks and Prevention
Dr. Philip Veal of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) urged travelers to use insect repellent, cover skin, and sleep under treated nets. “Check the TravelHealthPro website for destination-specific advice, including vaccinations,” he emphasized. Dengue symptoms—fever, headache, muscle pain, and nausea—typically appear 4–10 days after a mosquito bite, often striking travelers after their return.

Dengue is primarily spread by mosquitoes but can rarely transmit via infected blood.

Hotspots and Climate Impact
Most UK cases were linked to South Asia (notably India) and South America, where Brazil faced major outbreaks. One case originated in Spain, reflecting dengue’s spread into Europe. UKHSA warns that warmer temperatures and humidity—driven by climate change—are making Mediterranean regions more hospitable to dengue-carrying mosquitoes.

Dengue, historically called “breakbone fever,” is becoming a growing global threat.

Severe Dengue: A Hidden Danger
While most recover within weeks, 5% develop severe dengue, which has a 50% fatality rate. Symptoms like extreme abdominal pain, bleeding, and organ failure can emerge just as patients start feeling better. The NHS advises urgent medical care for anyone with symptoms post-travel.

UK Preparedness
Though dengue isn’t endemic in the UK, mosquitoes capable of carrying the virus have been detected. The NHS now lists European destinations like France, Spain, and Portugal as risk areas between spring and November. Vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and the elderly, are advised to avoid hotspots.

Mosquitoes with dengue potential have been found in the UK, though not yet established permanently.

Global Context
In 2023, the WHO reported 6.5 million global dengue cases and 7,300 deaths, though estimates suggest 390 million annual infections. With climate change accelerating outbreaks, health officials stress vigilance and prevention to curb the virus’s spread.

Key Takeaways

• Dengue cases in the UK hit a record high in 2024.
• Travelers to Asia, South America, and Europe should take precautions.
• Climate change is expanding mosquito habitats.
• Severe dengue requires immediate emergency care.

Stay informed, protect yourself, and seek medical advice if symptoms arise post-travel.