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In 2025, European health authorities in the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Italy have launched intensified efforts to combat the alarming uptick in mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue and chikungunya. This surge follows a steady increase in cases imported by travelers returning from high-risk regions, notably Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius.
Significant Rise in Imported Cases
France alone has reported a substantial surge in imported chikungunya cases, coupled with outbreaks of locally transmitted dengue in its southern regions. In 2024, France documented over 4,600 imported dengue cases and several local transmissions, mostly in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Occitanie, and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Spain, too, has experienced locally acquired dengue cases, especially in Catalonia.
The United Kingdom reported that in 2024, 904 dengue cases were detected among returning travelers—a 201% increase compared to the previous year. India remains the leading source of these cases, and the volume of travelers from dengue-endemic countries continues to rise. Approximately 4.7% of European travelers are diagnosed with vector-borne infections such as dengue or chikungunya upon returning from abroad.
Intensified Public Health Response
Health agencies are urging enhanced surveillance, pre-travel vaccination, and targeted awareness campaigns as mosquito-borne diseases expand beyond traditional endemic zones. The appearance of local (autochthonous) transmission in southern Europe underscores the risk of these diseases becoming more prevalent across the continent.
French and Italian authorities have increased vector control operations, public education on mosquito bite prevention, and screening of travelers for symptoms. Experts warn that mutations in viruses like chikungunya may be driving increased transmission capacity among mosquitoes.
Climate and the Changing Disease Landscape
Experts point to climate change, growing international travel, and low rates of pre-travel vaccination as key factors behind the shifting landscape of infectious disease in Europe. The spread of mosquito vectors to new regions, driven by warmer temperatures and global mobility, is projected to fuel further outbreaks.
Public Advice
Travelers planning trips to dengue-endemic countries such as India, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius are strongly advised to consult healthcare providers about appropriate vaccinations and mosquito avoidance measures well in advance of departure. Health authorities stress the importance of early diagnosis and immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, rash, or joint pain develop upon return.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns or travel health recommendations.
Reference: “Now UK, France, Spain, and Italy Intensify Efforts to Combat Rising These Diseases In 2025 Amid Surge Among Returning Travelers from Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius—What You Need to Know,” Travel and Tour World.
