Thursday, September 11, 2025
Mosquito-borne disease
What you need to know beofoe you travel
Whether you are heading to Africa, South America, or Southeast Asia, mosquito-borne diseases remain one of the most common health risks for British travellers. Illnesses such as Malaria, Dengue, ZIKA or Yellow Fever can cause serious complications and on rare occasions risk to life . Proof of vaccination for entry is sometime required for some countries.
vaccines, preventive measures with medications, and simple protective measures can reduce your risk . Book a travel health consultation in plenty of time prior to departure to allow time for vaccines and medication planning
Key Mosquito-Borne Diseases Affecting Travellers
Yellow Fever
Found in parts of Africa and South America. Many countries require proof of vaccination before entry. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO) and NHS UK, the vaccine should be given at least 10 days before travel. Travellers receive the International Certificate, this is valid for life.
Malaria
Common in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and parts of South America. There is no routine vaccine for travellers, but preventive medication is available. As per the UK Malaria Guidelines recommended drugs include Atovaquone-Proguanil, Doxycycline, or Mefloquine (all prescription- only in the UK). Start times vary: Atovaquone-Proguanil or Doxycycline usually begin 1–2 days before travel, while Mefloquine should start 2–3 weeks before to test tolerance.
Zika Virus
Active in South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Asia, and Africa. Particularly dangerous during pregnancy due to risks of birth defects. No vaccine exists. Travellers are advised to take strict mosquito-bite precautions. The Travel guidance is specific for pre conception and pregnant travellers, and guidance is to avoid high risk travel.
Chikungunya
Found in Africa, Asia, and the America.
Dengue
Widespread in Asia, the Pacific, Africa, and the Americas. Causes fever, rash, and in rare cases, life-threatening complications. Vaccines exist, but NHS UK does not currently recommend them for most travellers — their use is limited to specific high-risk groups and endemic country programmes (WHO guidance). Bite avoidance remains the main protection.
Japanese Encephalitis
Present in rural Asia and the Western Pacific. Though rare in travellers, it can cause severe brain inflammation. The UK NHS recommends vaccination (e.g. IXIARO) for long stays or rural exposure. The course is usually two doses.
Other Mosquito-Borne Diseases
West Nile Virus, Rift Valley Fever, St. Louis Encephalitis, Eastern/Western Equine Encephalitis, La Crosse Encephalitis, Ross River Virus, Barmah Forest Virus, Mayaro Virus, Sindbis Virus, O’nyong-nyong Fever — no licensed vaccines for travellers. Prevention relies entirely on bite protection (repellents, clothing, nets). Outbreaks are monitored By the WHO and each country disease outbreak surveillance bodies.
