UK Sees Surge in Travel-Related Malaria Cases Ahead of Holiday Season

Health officials urge precautions as malaria cases hit a 25-year high, with rising risks from other mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika.

The UK reported 2,106 malaria cases in 2023, a 26% increase from 2022 and the highest figure since 2001, linked to increased travel and malaria resurgence globally.
Six malaria-related deaths occurred in the UK in 2023, consistent with the annual average over the past decade.
Health officials also noted a significant rise in dengue cases, with 473 reported in the first half of 2024, the highest since surveillance began in 2009.
Travellers are advised to take preventive measures, including using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, sleeping under treated bed nets, and consulting healthcare providers for vaccines and medication.
Zika virus cases, though rare, increased to eight in the first half of 2024, posing risks particularly to pregnant women due to potential birth defects.