UK tourists planning to visit France have been cautioned about the surge in dengue fever cases, with concerns raised by health authorities and organisations ahead of the Summer Olympics.
UK tourists planning to visit France have been warned about an uptick in dengue fever cases. Since May, France has reported 600 new instances of the mosquito-borne disease. While most people recover without complications, severe cases can lead to fatality rates as high as 26% if not adequately treated. Public Health France indicates that nearly 20% of the over 2,800 cases originated from Guadeloupe or Martinique.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) attributes the spread to climate change, which fosters the proliferation of the disease-carrying tiger mosquito. ECDC Director Andrea Ammon emphasized that increased international travel could further the risk of local outbreaks. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that dengue is endemic in over 100 countries, with more than six million cases and 7,000 deaths annually.
The warning comes as many UK travelers prepare for the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in France. Authorities advise taking personal protective measures and stress the importance of early detection and awareness.