Planning travel to warmer countries now comes with an added health consideration, as the UK Health Security Agency recently reported a sharp rise in travel-related Chikungunya cases, increasing from 27 to 73 within just one year. This growing trend shows how easy it is to pick up the Chikungunya virus from mosquito bites in affected regions, even during short trips.
For travellers, knowing how the virus spreads and what symptoms to look out for can make a real difference. Although chikungunya disease is rarely dangerous, the sudden fever and intense joint pain can be severe enough to disrupt your plans and affect your wellbeing long after you return home.
What Exactly Is the Chikungunya Virus?
The Chikungunya virus is an illness that spreads through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during the daytime and thrive in warm and humid regions. Once infected, most people develop symptoms within a few days, and although the condition is rarely life-threatening, it can be extremely uncomfortable.
Where Is the Chikungunya Virus Common?
The virus is most common in:
- Parts of Africa
- South and Southeast Asia
- Central and South America
- The Caribbean
Why Is the Chikungunya Virus a Concern for Travellers?
Travellers can easily be bitten by a chikungunya mosquito in areas where the virus is active. Even one bite from an infected mosquito is enough to pass on chikungunya disease.
How Does the Chikungunya Virus Spread?
The virus spreads when an infected mosquito bites a person. It is not spread from person to person. This means protecting yourself from mosquito bites is the most effective way to reduce your risk.
Which Mosquito Carries the Virus?
The chikungunya mosquito belongs to the Aedes group, mainly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes are also known for spreading dengue and Zika.
Can the Virus Spread in the UK?
It is very unlikely. Although Aedes mosquitoes have been found in parts of Europe, they are not established in the UK. Chikungunya cannot spread from person to person, but travellers returning from affected regions can arrive with the infection.
What Are the Chikungunya Symptoms?
Chikungunya symptoms normally appear around three to seven days after a mosquito bite. Symptoms can vary from mild to very uncomfortable.
Most Common Chikungunya Symptoms
The most common signs of chikungunya include:
- High fever
- Severe joint pain
- Headaches
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Rash
How Long Do Chikungunya Symptoms Last?
Most symptoms improve within a week, although joint pain can last for several weeks or even months in some people.
When Should You Seek Help?
You should speak with one of our pharmacists if you experience severe pain, prolonged symptoms or have recently travelled to an area where chikungunya disease is common.
What Are the Options for Chikungunya Treatment?
There is no specific antiviral chikungunya treatment. Instead, the focus is on easing symptoms until the infection passes.
Common Symptom Relief Options
- Pain relief recommended by our pharmacists
- Plenty of rest
- Drinking enough water
- Cool compresses for joint pain
Can Our Pharmacists Help?
Yes. Our pharmacists can offer personalised advice on safe over-the-counter treatments and guidance on managing symptoms while you recover.
What Are the Best Ways to Support Chikungunya Prevention?
Chikungunya prevention is mainly about avoiding mosquito bites when travelling to affected areas.
Essential Bite Prevention Tips
To lower your risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito while travelling, these practical steps can help keep you protected throughout your trip:
- Use mosquito repellent with at least 20 per cent DEET.
- Wear loose, long-sleeved clothing.
- Sleep in rooms with air conditioning or secure screens.
- Use mosquito nets if needed.
- Avoid areas with standing water
Is the Chikungunya Vaccine Available in the UK?
Yes. Chikungunya vaccines have recently been authorised for use in the UK and are now becoming available through selected private travel clinics and pharmacies. They are mainly recommended for travellers visiting regions where outbreaks are active.
Touchwood Pharmacy offers access to the chikungunya vaccination for eligible travellers, and our pharmacists can advise on suitability and availability ahead of your trip.
Where Can You Get Chikungunya Travel Advice and Protection in the UK?
Understanding the Chikungunya virus and how it spreads is key for safe travel. If you are planning a trip to a region where the chikungunya mosquito is common, professional guidance can help you stay protected and prepared.
Book your appointment with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy for personalised travel health advice and mosquito bite prevention support.
FAQs
Can you catch the Chikungunya virus in the UK?
No. You cannot catch the Chikungunya virus in the UK because the chikungunya mosquito responsible for spreading the infection is not established here. However, people can return to the UK with the infection after travelling to affected regions, so it is still important to be aware of the risks if you plan to travel.
How soon do Chikungunya symptoms appear after a mosquito bite?
Most people develop Chikungunya symptoms between three and seven days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The first signs often include a sudden high fever followed by severe joint pain. Some people may also experience fatigue, rash or muscle aches.
Is the Chikungunya virus dangerous during pregnancy?
Chikungunya virus is usually mild, but it can pose risks during pregnancy, especially if the infection occurs close to the time of delivery. Transmission from mother to baby is rare but possible. Anyone who is pregnant and planning to travel to high-risk regions should speak with one of our pharmacists for personalised travel health guidance.
How long does the joint pain from Chikungunya last?
Joint pain can last from a few days to several weeks, and in some cases, several months. While most people recover fully, lingering joint discomfort is one of the most common ongoing effects of chikungunya disease. Our pharmacists can recommend suitable pain relief options to help manage symptoms safely.
Is there a vaccine for Chikungunya in the UK?
Yes. Chikungunya vaccines have recently been authorised for use in the UK and are gradually becoming available through private travel clinics and pharmacies. They are intended for travellers who may be exposed to outbreaks during their trip. Touchwood Pharmacy provides the chikungunya vaccination for those who meet the suitability criteria, and our pharmacists can help you understand whether it is recommended for your travel plans.
What is the best way to prevent catching the Chikungunya virus when travelling?
The most effective way to prevent infection is to avoid mosquito bites. This includes using strong insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, staying in screened or air-conditioned rooms, and avoiding standing water where mosquitoes breed. These steps significantly lower your risk of coming into contact with a chikungunya mosquito.
