Dengue fever has spread to some parts of Europe, with cases detected in countries including Spain, Greece, France and Italy.
This is caused by a rise in tiger mosquitos as climate change has created better conditions for them, experts state.
The pests have been spotted in 13 countries including holiday hotspots across Europe that have already recorded cases.
This includes Spain, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Malta, Portugal, Romania and Slovenia.
Those in parts of Spain could be at risk
PA
Dengue fever is transmitted by mosquitos and the illness can affect everyone differently. It usually brings on symptoms such as fever, sickness, raches, headaches and body aches.
Some people will show no symptoms while others could need hospital care. It can be fatal in extreme cases.
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control director Andrea Ammon has shared a warning ahead of summer travel.
She said: “Europe is already seeing how climate change is creating more favourable conditions for invasive mosquitos to spread into previously unaffected areas and infect more people with diseases such as dengue.
“Increased international travel from dengue-endemic countries will also increase the risk of imported cases, and inevitably also the risk of local outbreaks.”
She added taking protective measures and ensuring early detection, awareness-raising, timely surveillance and further research are “paramount” in the countries at risk.
The NHS warns there is no treatment for dengue fever but rest, drinking plenty of fluids and paracetamol can help to ease symptoms.
Britons have been hit with various travel warnings for popular spots across Europe in recent weeks.
It can be transmitted by mosquitos
GETTY
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office stated: “Throughout June, planned industrial action by port worker and air traffic control unions is expected to disrupt some ferry routes and flights across France, with some routes and flights diverted or cancelled.
“Check your operator’s advice before travelling, including where you are taking connecting flights.”
It added: “Until September, possible industrial action may cause disruption on the Paris public transport system (RATP). Check the RATP website for live service updates.”
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