Tag: UK Health Security Agency

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 12 November 2025.

The new report demonstrates the impact climate change is already having on the mental health of the UK population.

A report published today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) demonstrates the impact climate change is already having on the mental health of the UK population.

The effects of extreme weather such as flooding and heat are the biggest climate-related issues affecting mental health in the UK today, particularly impacting vulnerable populations who find it increasingly difficult to access transport and healthcare services in extreme conditions.  

An increasing awareness of these longer-term impacts is also leading to increased anxiety about the future, particularly among children and young people. In the absence of appropriate interventions and adaptations, these impacts are likely to grow as the climate warms.

The report outlines that mental health impacts are not felt equally – farming, rural communities, those with livelihoods connected to the land and those with pre-existing health issues are at heightened risk.

There are steps that can be taken to reduce the burden placed on mental health and well-being from climate change, including implementing preparedness measures such as high-quality early warning systems and providing targeted mental health support for communities affected by adverse weather events.

Professor Lea Berrang Ford, Head of the UKHSA Centre for Climate and Health Security (CCHS), said:

Climate change is already impacting mental health, and these risks will increase as the climate warms and extreme weather events become more frequent and severe.  

Climate warming will exacerbate mental health inequalities, with impacts greatest on rural and agricultural communities and young people.

There are practical and effective steps government and social care organisations can take to ensure adequate protection and support.

Professor Robin May, Chief Scientific Officer at UKHSA, said:

Published as part of UKHSA’s commitment to the UK Government’s National Adaptation Programme, this publication is an important step forward and builds on the evidence base set in out in the Health Effects of Climate Change report.

Crucially this report highlights there is much we can do to minimise the adverse impacts from climate change on mental health and we hope that it will help galvanise activity and lead to coordinated action in this area.

This report is part of UKHSA’s ongoing commitment to investigate the impact of climate change on health. One of the main findings of this report is that these impacts are not evenly distributed, with certain groups being disproportionately affected. 

Farming communities in the UK already experience high rates of mental health challenges, with only 55% of farmers feeling positive about their mental health. Climate change will exacerbate this burden.

For younger generations, the impacts can be anticipatory – they suffer anxiety about the effects that climate change will have in their lifetime, which is coupled with a perceived lack of ability to carry out actions to make a difference.

In a global survey published by the Lancet Planetary Health, findings from the UK showed that out of 1,000 children, 50% reported feeling extremely worried about climate change, with some respondents across all 10 countries surveyed also saying it impacted their daily lives and made them hesitant about having children due to concerns over their future quality of life.

These mental health and wellbeing impacts need to be considered alongside existing service pressures and other predicted changes to health service demand associated with an ageing population.

Alongside demonstrating the impacts climate change could have, the report is clear that there are steps that can be taken to counter these affects. Targeted interventions for specific groups can reduce climate-related distress, while mitigation or adaptation actions can have positive mental health co-benefits.

Many interventions targeted at supporting people following extreme weather events focus on impacts immediately following the event, but this report highlights the importance of ongoing support to address mental health impacts that persist beyond the immediate crisis.

Interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or digital interventions such as mobile mindfulness apps or text-based supportive messaging associated with both climate-related weather hazards and general awareness of climate change significantly reduced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and stress. In rural communities affected by drought, wildfires, floods and hurricanes, individual and group-based psychological and clinical interventions were also associated with a significant reduction in these symptoms.

Interventions designed to adapt to or mitigate the impacts of climate change, including preparedness measures such as advanced warning systems, flood defences and timely dissemination of information, reduce the risk of mental health difficulties.

There are also longer-term measures that can provide co-benefits, such as urban design strategies that improve mental health through increasing physical activity, shaded areas and social connectivity.

Further research on successful interventions will help build resilience to these longer-term impacts of climate change and help maintain public health in a rapidly warming world.

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 28 August 2025.

UKHSA and NHS England call for parents and healthcare workers to catch up on children’s missed vaccinations as schools start the autumn term.

UKHSA and NHS England are today asking parents to check their child’s vaccine records and catch up on any missed vaccinations with their GP practice. The call comes as the new school term starts and new data shows that whilst most children are fully vaccinated by the time they start school, many are still left unvaccinated and vulnerable to catching serious illnesses.

The latest annual uptake data on childhood vaccines (April 2024-March 2025) published today by the UK Health Security Agency, shows 18.6% of children, almost 1 in 5, have not received their pre-school booster jab.

The data reports on children who turned 5 between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025. In England over the last 10 years, the coverage or uptake rates for the pre-school booster peaked at 86.3% in 2015 to 2016. The latest data, at 81.4%, is nearly 5% lower than the peak. Outside of London, the coverage for England was 85.0%.

The 4-in-1 pre-school booster helps protect against 4 serious illnesses – polio, whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria. Given from 3 years 4 months of age, the vaccine boosts the protection provided by previous vaccines given to babies. It ensures children have the essential protection they need when starting primary school. Without this booster, children are not fully protected.

The ‘6-in-1’ vaccine is offered to babies aged 18 months. Uptake measured at 5 years in England has increased by 0.2% to 92.8%. This increase is encouraging, and healthcare professionals are urging further progress towards reaching the peak of 95.6% over the last 10 years (2016 to 2017). A further 2.8% increase is needed to reach the peak level.

NHS England and regional ICB teams have continued the drive to encourage parents to vaccinate their children including hosting extra clinics, catch up opportunities in schools and localised outreach projects to target low uptake areas across the country. Early results from today’s released data indicates that the decline in the MMR1 vaccine has stabilised with 91.8% receiving their first dose by age 5 years.

Childhood vaccination coverage varies significantly geographically and continues to be lowest for all the uptake indicators in London.

In England, areas (upper tier local authorities) in the north consistently perform better than other areas. Pre-school booster rates for Cumbria (now 2 unitary authorities, Cumberland Council and Westmoreland and Furness Council) is at 94.3%, Country Durham and East Riding of Yorkshire – 93.7%, Barnsley – 92.8% and Northumberland – 92.3%; compared with the overall England coverage of 81.4%.

Dr Mary Ramsay, Director of Immunisation at UK Health Security Agency, said:

Ensuring all our children starting primary school are fully protected is essential to keep them safe and give them the best opportunity to thrive at school. We know that most parents want to do what is best for their children and do have confidence and trust in NHS childhood vaccinations, which save thousands of lives and prevent tens of thousands of hospital admissions every year. But it can be hard juggling busy lives and work, finding time to book and get to the GP appointments.

Far too many children will not be fully protected and safe when starting school and are at risk of serious diseases, such as measles and whooping cough, that have in recent years caused outbreaks. Measles, being the most infectious disease, is the ‘canary in the coalmine’ and a wake-up call that urgent action is needed to stop the very real risk of other diseases re-emerging.

That is why there needs to be a concerted effort in providing these vitally important vaccines, to make time to speak and reassure any parents who may have concerns and make it as easy as possible for their children to get vaccinated.

Parents should check their children are up to date with all their jabs and, if not, contact their GP practice as soon as possible.

Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said:

Too many children are starting primary school without complete protection against preventable and potentially serious illnesses like measles, whooping cough and mumps.

We know parents want to do right by their children and we’re working with the NHS to make it easier for all families to access these life-saving vaccines.

Vaccines save thousands of lives every year and prevent countless hospital admissions. I urge all parents to check their child’s vaccination record and contact their GP practice if any jabs are missing.

Latest data on Vaccine-preventable diseases is available on the UKHSA Dashboard.

More information on vaccinations is available at nhs.uk/vaccinations.

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 14 August 2025.

The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data shows an increase in travel-associated chikungunya cases in England. A total of 73 cases were reported between January and June 2025. The same period in 2024 saw 27 cases. 2025 has the highest number of cases recorded in this period to date.

The data is published today as part of UKHSA’s Travel-associated infections in England, Wales and Northern Ireland: January to June 2025 report, which also reveals 3 cases of Oropouche virus in travellers returning to the UK. This is the first time the UK has reported Oropouche virus cases, with all cases associated with travel to Brazil.

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne infection related to overseas travel, with symptoms including a sudden onset of fever usually accompanied by joint pain. While most people recover fully within 1 to 2 weeks, the joint pain can persist for months or even years. Up to 12% of patients still experiencing discomfort 3 years after infection. Serious complications are uncommon, but very rarely the disease can be fatal. This is particularly true for the very young, older individuals and those with other underlying illnesses.

Of the 73 chikungunya cases, the majority reported travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius, linked with ongoing local outbreaks in countries in the Indian Ocean region. All cases were reported in England, with the majority in London.

There are only 2 species of mosquito that transmit the disease and they are not established in the UK at present. This is because our climate is generally not suitable for their survival and breeding. Therefore, there is currently no risk of onward transmission of chikungunya in the UK.

There are 2 chikungunya vaccines that have recently been approved for use in the UK based on The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation(JCVI) advice. They are available to buy – following an assessment by a healthcare professional – privately from travel clinics.

• IXCHIQ® is available for individuals aged 18 to 59 years old
• Vimkunya® is available for individuals 12 years and older.

Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said:

Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we’re seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. Thankfully symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer.

It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk. Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro Website for the latest advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also be considered for those travelling to higher-risk regions.

Oropouche virus (OROV) is spread predominantly by midge bites rather than mosquito bites. The primary type of midge responsible for the outbreak in the Americas is not seen in the UK and Europe. If a person becomes unwell with symptoms such as high fever, chills, headache, joint pain and muscle aches following travel to affected areas, they should seek urgent medical advice.

There has been a rise in Oropouche virus infections globally since 2024, especially in multiple countries in South America, Central America and the Caribbean, with Brazil reporting the largest outbreaks. Due to the increase in cases, and some recent concerns regarding Oropouche virus infection during pregnancy, pregnant travellers should take particular care.

Today’s UKHSA’s Travel-associated Infections Report for the first 6 months of this year also shows:

• a significant increase in travel-associated cholera cases in the UK, with 8 cases (compared to just 1 case in 2024) – most cases reported travel history to India and Ethiopia – with all Ethiopia-linked cases associated with an outbreak there
• 161 dengue cases reported in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, a 67% decrease compared to the same period in 2024, which saw 490 cases
• Zika virus disease cases also decreased to 4 cases in the first half of 2025, down from 9 cases in 2024

There has also been cases of meningococcal serogroup W (MenW) disease this year, associated with travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah and Hajj and their household contacts. Meningococcal disease can leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions including hearing loss, brain damage and limb amputations, and can also be fatal. Anyone travelling to Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage at any time of the year should ensure they are vaccinated with the MenACWY vaccine before travel.

For more information, travellers are strongly advised to visit the Travel Health Pro website, supported by UKHSA, at least 4 to 6 weeks before travel. This provides comprehensive information on health risks in countries across the world. It is a one-stop shop for information to help people plan their trip abroad safely.

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 4 August 2025.

Due to risk of infection, non-sterile alcohol-free wipes are not appropriate for the treatment of injuries, wounds or on broken skin, nor for cleaning of intravenous lines.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are advising the public to stop using certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes and to dispose of them.

During investigation of an outbreak, certain wipes were found to be contaminated with Burkholderia stabilis.

The following products have been found to be affected:

• ValueAid Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes
• Microsafe Moist Wipe Alcohol Free
• Steroplast Sterowipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes

In addition, testing also revealed contamination of Reliwipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes, although the contamination was deemed to be with a Burkholderia strain not related to the outbreak cases.

These products which may have been used for ‘skin cleansing’ and cleaning in or around wounds have been withdrawn from sale but may still be found in some first aid kits and in people’s homes. These products are not routinely used in the NHS. If you have these products (listed above), you are advised not to use them and to dispose of them in your household waste as a precautionary measure given the potential for contamination.

This notice relates only to the products listed above. However, the public are reminded that non-sterile alcohol-free wipes should not be used for the treatment of injuries, wounds or on broken skin, nor should they be used for cleaning intravenous lines, as they are not appropriate for these purposes and their safety cannot be guaranteed. You should follow NHS guidance when treating cuts and grazes. Patients who have intravenous lines in place are advised to follow instructions of their medical team in the care of these.

If you have used non-sterile, alcohol-free wipes you do not have to visit a healthcare professional unless you have symptoms of:

• a wound infection, which can include redness, swelling, increased pain, warmth around a wound/break in skin, and pus or other drainage from the wound/break in skin
• infection involving an intravenous line, which can include signs such as redness, swelling, or pain around the insertion site and or fever and chills

UKHSA advice on appropriate use of ‘skin cleansing’ wipes:

• only use wipes marked as ‘sterile’ on broken skin such as wounds, scratches, or where you can see blood – it is important to use only sterile wipes on broken skin as this reduces the chances of germs getting into the body and causing infections
• please ensure your first aid kit only contains wipes marked as ‘sterile’, the packaging around wipes marked as ‘sterile’ is not damaged and that products are in date – dispose of any wipes with damaged packaging or past their expiry date
• if you have an intravenous line and are managing this yourself at home, you should only use wipes on this line if and as instructed by your medical team
• if you have an intravenous line or if you have cystic fibrosis and are concerned about your wellbeing or have questions about your care, please contact your medical team

Burkholderia stabilis is a bacteria found in natural environments, rarely causing infection in healthy individuals and the risk to the general population is very low. However, immunocompromised individuals, and individuals with other risk factors such as cystic fibrosis, or patients at home with intravenous lines are at higher risk of developing infection.

There have been 51 confirmed cases in an outbreak of Burkholderia stabilis in the United Kingdom between 2018 and 2025, now suspected to be associated with some non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products. No deaths have been linked to this outbreak though there have been some serious infections which have required hospital treatment. No person-to-person transmission has been identified.

UKHSA has been working with the MHRA, the NHS, and other partners to put in place measures to protect the public. MHRA have been working with manufacturers and distributors to cease sale and supply of the affected products. UKHSA has issued a safety alert to health professionals about recent infections potentially linked to contaminated non-sterile wipes and to reinforce existing infection prevention and control guidance.

Dr James Elston, Consultant in Epidemiology and Public Health at UKHSA, said:

While the overall risk to the public remains very low, a number of non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products have been linked to an outbreak of Burkholderia stabilis. It is important these types of wipes are not used for the treatment of injuries, wounds, or broken skin, and that they are not used to clean intravenous lines.

UKHSA uncovered the link to this outbreak through testing of wipes used by patients and worked quickly to notify health professionals through a patient safety alert, reinforcing existing infection prevention and control guidance.

When treating cuts and grazes, it is important to follow NHS advice.

Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, said:

We consider wipes which are intended for a medical purpose to be medicines. These products do not have a medicines authorisation, and we are taking appropriate action to ensure compliance with the requirements of the applicable legislation governed by MHRA.

If you have these wipes at home or in a first aid kit, please check the label and only use wipes marked as ‘sterile’ on broken skin. Healthcare professionals are advised to follow instructions and information provided in the national patient safety alert from UKHSA.

Anyone who has used alcohol-free wipes and has concerns about potential infection is advised to speak with a healthcare professional.

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 18 June 2025.

UKHSA is reminding travellers to be careful around animals when travelling to rabies affected countries.

An individual from the UK has sadly died after becoming infected with rabies, following contact with a stray dog during a visit to Morocco. The individual was diagnosed in Yorkshire and the Humber.

There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case as there is no documented evidence of rabies passing between people. However, as a precautionary measure, health workers and close contacts are being assessed and offered vaccination when necessary.

Rabies is passed on through injuries such as bites and scratches from an infected animal. It is nearly always fatal, but post-exposure treatment is very effective at preventing disease if given promptly after exposure to the virus.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding travellers to be careful around animals when travelling to rabies affected countries due to the risk of catching the disease.

Dr Katherine Russell, Head of Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, at UKHSA, said:

I would like to extend my condolences to this individual’s family at this time.

If you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found then you should wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water and seek medical advice without delay in order to get post-exposure treatment to prevent rabies.

There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case. Human cases of rabies are extremely rare in the UK, and worldwide there are no documented instances of direct human-to-human transmission.

Rabies does not circulate in either wild or domestic animals in the UK, although some species of bats can carry a rabies-like virus. No human cases of rabies acquired in the UK from animals other than bats have been reported since 1902.

Between 2000 and 2024 there were 6 cases of human rabies associated with animal exposures abroad reported in the UK.

Rabies is common in other parts of the world, especially in Asia and Africa. All travellers to rabies affected countries should avoid contact with dogs, cats and other animals wherever possible, and seek advice about the need for rabies vaccine prior to travel.

You should take immediate action to wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water, if:

• you’ve been bitten or scratched by an animal while you’re abroad in a country with rabies
• an animal has licked your eyes, nose or mouth, or licked a wound you have, while you’re abroad in a country with rabies
• you’ve been bitten or scratched by a bat in the UK

Local medical advice should be sought without delay, even in those who have been previously vaccinated.

When given promptly after an exposure, a course of rabies post-exposure treatment is extremely effective at preventing the disease. If such an exposure occurs abroad, the traveller should also consult their doctor on return, so that the course of rabies treatment can be completed. If travellers have not sought medical advice abroad, they should contact their doctor promptly upon return for assessment.

For more information on the risk of rabies in different countries, see the country information pages on the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s (NaTHNaC’s) website, TravelHealthPro.

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 5 June 2025.

Latest UKHSA data shows outbreaks continuing, with 109 cases confirmed in April and 86 so far in May.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) today publishes its monthly update on measles cases in England, which shows outbreaks continuing, with 109 cases confirmed in April and 86 so far in May. Cases have predominantly been in unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under, with on-going outbreaks in a number of regions and London reporting almost half of all cases in the past 4 weeks.

There has also been a global increase in measles cases including Europe over the last year and the Agency is concerned, that with travelling for holidays or to visit family this summer, there is a risk this could lead to another surge of measles cases in England.

The latest measles epidemiology report on the UKHSA Data Dashboard today reports:

• since 1 January there have been 420 laboratory confirmed measles cases reported in England
• 109 measles cases were confirmed in April and to date 86 in May (number of laboratory confirmed measles cases by month of symptom onset, data reporting lags impact on most recent 4 weeks and therefore the figures are likely to be an underestimate)
• the majority (276/420, 66%) of these cases were in children aged 10 years and under, but there are also cases being reported in young people and adults
• London has seen the highest number of cases overall this year (162/420, 39%) and in the last 4 weeks (35/75, 47%)
• a number of other regions are also reporting outbreaks – with 25% (19/75) of cases in the North West, and 11% (8/75) in the West Midlands in the last 4 weeks

Since the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1968, at least 20 million measles cases and 4,500 deaths have been prevented in the UK.

However, measles remains endemic in many countries around the world, and with declines in MMR vaccine uptake observed over the last decade, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have also seen large measles outbreaks in Europe and other countries.

An analysis by the World Health Organization (WHO) Europe and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), reported 127, 350 measles cases in the European Region for 2024, double the number of cases reported for 2023 and the highest number since 1997.

This year outbreaks have been seen in several other European countries, including France, Italy, Spain and Germany, and WHO recently reported that Romania, Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Nigeria currently have among the largest number of measles cases worldwide.

In England, the decline of the uptake of childhood vaccinations including MMR in the past decade (well below the WHO 95% target) means that many thousands of children are left unprotected with the risk of outbreaks linked to nurseries and schools.

London has the lowest MMR uptake rates compared with other English regions (MMR2 uptake at 5 years is just 73.3% in London compared to English average of 83.9%).

From Autumn 2023 to summer 2024, England experienced the biggest outbreak of measles since 2012, particularly affecting young children. Since the peak last year cases have declined but local outbreaks continue.

Measles is one of the most highly infectious diseases and spreads rapidly among those who are unvaccinated. The UKHSA is concerned that more outbreaks may occur again on a larger scale this summer as families with unvaccinated children and adults travel to countries where there are outbreaks.

It is important that anyone travelling for summer holidays or to visit family, especially parents of young children, check that all members of their family have received both their MMR vaccines.

Getting vaccinated means you are also helping protect others who can’t have the vaccine, including infants under 1 year and people with weakened immune systems, who are at greater risk of serious illness and complications from measles.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency:

It’s essential that everyone, particularly parents of young children, check all family members are up to date with 2 MMR doses, especially if you are travelling this summer for holidays or visiting family. Measles cases are picking up again in England and outbreaks are happening in Europe and many countries with close links to the UK.

Measles spreads very easily and can be a nasty disease, leading to complications like ear and chest infections and inflammation of the brain with some children tragically ending up in hospital and suffering life-long consequences. Nobody wants this for their child and it’s not something you want to experience when away on holiday.

The MMR vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family from measles. Babies under the age of 1 and some people who have weakened immune systems can’t have the vaccine and are at risk of more serious complications if they get measles. They rely on the rest of us getting the vaccine to protect them.

It is never too late to catch up, if you’re not sure if any of your family are up to date, check their Red Book or contact your GP practice. Don’t put it off and regret it later.

Dr Amanda Doyle, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services at NHS England, said:

Tens of thousands of additional MMR vaccinations were delivered following NHS action last year to protect children against measles, mumps and rubella, and the recent increase in cases seen in England and Europe should act as an important reminder to ensure your child is protected.

Too many babies and young children are still not protected against the diseases, which are contagious infections that spread very easily and can cause serious health problems. MMR jabs are provided free as part of the NHS routine immunisation programme – and I would encourage all parents to act on invites or check vaccination records if they think they may have missed their child’s vaccination.

The first MMR vaccine is offered to infants when they turn one year old and the second dose to pre-school children when they are around 3 years and 4 months old.

Around 99% of those who have 2 doses will be protected against measles and rubella. Although mumps protection is slightly lower, cases in vaccinated people are much less severe.

Anyone, whatever age, who has not had 2 doses can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment. It is never too late to catch-up.

It’s particularly important to check you’ve had both doses if you are:

• about to start college or university
• travelling overseas
• planning a pregnancy
• a frontline health or social care worker
• if you work with young children or care for people as part of your work

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 8 May 2025.

The infection can cause severe illnesses in the elderly, immunocompromised or those with underlying chronic conditions.

There were 179 cases of listeriosis reported in England and Wales in 2024, according to new data published today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

Listeriosis is caused by Listeria bacteria and is usually contracted by eating contaminated raw, chilled, or ready-to-eat foods. Most people with listeriosis won’t have any symptoms or will have mild gastroenteritis. However, the infection can cause severe illnesses in the elderly, immunocompromised or those with underlying chronic conditions. Infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth, or severe infections in newborn babies.

The 179 cases reported in 2024 are comparable to the previous year’s figures (177 cases in 2023), and to levels seen in the years preceding the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest data show that while listeriosis can affect people of all ages, it poses a significantly greater risk to vulnerable groups, with the highest numbers seen in people aged 80 and over. Of the 28 deaths reported among 142 non-pregnancy cases, 12 were aged 80 years and over. Among pregnancy-associated infections, which accounted for approximately one-fifth of all cases, 43.7% resulted in stillbirth or miscarriage where outcomes were known.

In England, London had the highest levels of listeriosis (0.39 cases per 100,000 population), whilst the East of England had the lowest (0.23 cases per 100,000 population).

Vanessa Wong, UKHSA Consultant in gastrointestinal infections, said:

Listeriosis is a rare infection and most people only experience mild symptoms of gastroenteritis that usually pass within a few days without the need for treatment. However, severe listeriosis is more likely to affect the elderly, very young babies, pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system. The best way to prevent listeriosis is to practise good food hygiene and avoid high-risk foods if you are in a vulnerable group. Foods that carry a greater risk of Listeria include: soft cheeses, pâté, smoked fish, chilled sliced meats and other chilled ready-to-eat products.

Those at higher risk from severe Listeria infection include:

• elderly people (risk increases with age)
• those with malignancies or undergoing immunosuppressive or cytotoxic treatments
• pregnant women and their unborn or newborn infants
• organ transplant recipients
• people with chronic kidney and liver diseases
• those with uncontrolled diabetes, HIV, alcohol dependency or iron overload

In most people, listeriosis has no symptoms or only causes mild symptoms for a few days, such as:

• high temperature
• aches and pains
• chills
• feeling or being sick
• diarrhoea

If you’re pregnant, you may also have a stomach ache or notice your baby moving less than usual.

For advice on avoiding listeriosis during pregnancy or if you are in a high-risk group, please visit the NHS website at Listeriosis – NHS

In 2024, UKHSA investigated 7 listeriosis outbreaks across England and Wales, linked to various food products including smoked fish, chocolate and strawberry mousse, garlic sausage and pre-packed sandwiches.

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 2 May 2025.

Data shows current state of health inequalities caused by infectious diseases, as well as environmental health hazards.

As part of its commitment to achieving equitable health security outcomes for everyone, the UK Health Security Agency is publishing (Friday 2 May) comprehensive new data, the Health Inequalities in Health Protection report. The report provides a high-level summary of the current state of health inequalities in England caused by infectious diseases, as well as environmental health hazards.

The analysis mainly uses hospital admissions as a measure of infectious disease levels; key findings include:

• people living in the 20% most deprived areas in England are almost twice as likely to be admitted to hospital due to infectious diseases than the least deprived
• those living in the North-West are 30% more likely to be hospitalised for an infectious disease (3,600 per 100,000 admissions for Sept 23-Aug 24), compared to the England average (2,800 per 100,000)
• areas of high levels of deprivation typically experience higher levels of air pollution than less deprived and less ethnically diverse areas
• the scale of inequalities between ethnic groups varies by specific disease. For example, emergency admission rates for tuberculosis were 29 times higher for ‘Asian other ‘, 27 times higher for ‘Indian’ and 15 times higher for ‘Black African’, compared to ‘White British’
• As well as the costs to the social, physical and mental health of our communities, it was estimated that inequalities in emergency infectious disease hospital admissions cost the NHS between £970 million and £1.5 billion in 2022-23.

People living in deprived communities experience higher emergency hospital admission rates, compared to the least deprived communities; the data show these are:

• twice as high for respiratory diseases in general and up to seven times higher specifically for tuberculosis and six times higher for measles.
• twice as high for invasive infections in general, and up to 2.5 times higher specifically for sepsis
• 1.7 times higher for gastrointestinal diseases

People from more deprived areas are also disproportionately impacted by radiation, chemical, climate and environmental hazards through their exposure, direct impact on their health, and the exacerbation of existing health conditions​. Areas with high levels of deprivation typically have higher levels of air pollution than less deprived and less ethnically diverse areas.

Dr Leonora Weil, Deputy Director for Health Equity and Inclusion at UKHSA said:

The report reveals some stark facts on the state of inequalities in health security faced by some people, in particular those living in the most deprived communities and certain areas of the country, some ethnic groups, as well as excluded groups such as those experiencing homelessness.

These health protection inequalities – where there are poorer health outcomes based on where you live, your socio-economic status or ethnicity are avoidable, pervasive, and preventable. That is why it is so important to shine a light on these findings to increase action to support communities to live longer and in better health.

Going forward our data and analysis of the evidence will help us, and our partners apply a health equity lens to all our health security work, to inform how we better target effective health services and wider interventions to those most at need.

This report is just the start. We need to build on these insights, as only through persistent and dedicated effort across all health organisations will we make a real difference to helping all people live longer and in better health.

UKHSA’s approach to reducing health inequalities in health protection involves:

• building our understanding of the people and places that experience these inequalities
• taking a ‘people and place’ approach, working with local and national systems to support integrated, tailored and accessible interventions that better meet the needs of different communities and groups
• working in partnership across national and local government, the NHS, the voluntary, faith and charity sector and communities themselves
• equipping the UKHSA workforce with the capacity and capability to address inequalities in health protection in everything we do

Inclusion health groups, such as people seeking asylum, people in prison, people experiencing homelessness and people who inject drugs are often disproportionately impacted by a range of infectious diseases. For example, it is estimated that over 80% of people in England living with chronic Hepatitis C have an injecting drug history. However, inclusion health groups are often not visible in routine health surveillance data.

In addition to the social, physical and mental health costs to our communities, health inequalities also have a significant economic burden. It was estimated that inequalities in emergency infectious disease hospital admissions cost the NHS between £970 million and £1.5 billion in 2022-23. In a recent UKHSA report summarising infectious disease trends, it was estimated that infectious diseases were the primary reason for over 20% of hospital bed usage, at an annual cost of almost £6bn in 2023 to 2024.

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 24 April 2025.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging travellers to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for Umrah and the upcoming Hajj pilgrimages to ensure they are vaccinated against meningococcal disease with the MenACWY vaccine, due to ongoing outbreaks of serogroup W (MenW) disease associated with travel to KSA.

UKHSA has confirmed 5 cases of MenW disease between February and March 2025 in people who had recently returned from KSA or in their close contacts in England and Wales.

Invasive meningococcal disease is rare but serious and is caused by meningococcal bacteria. Meningococcal meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning) are severe conditions that can kill or leave people with life-changing disabilities.

Those undertaking Hajj or Umrah, along with seasonal workers, are required to present a valid certificate of MenACWY vaccination issued between 10 days and 3 to 5 years before arrival, depending on the type of MenACWY vaccine previously received. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) advise, however, that all travellers to KSA should consider receiving the quadrivalent meningococcal (MenACWY) vaccine, especially during the current MenW outbreak.

While abroad and in the 2 weeks after returning to the UK, pilgrims and travellers returning from KSA should monitor for symptoms such as:

• fever
• severe headache
• vomiting
• stiff neck
• rash
• extreme sleepiness
• seizures

Symptoms may resemble flu initially and can appear in any order, but can lead to serious illness within hours. Anyone who has symptoms and becomes concerned about their own or someone else’s health should seek immediate medical advice or dial 999 in a medical emergency.

Dr Shamez Ladhani, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said:

The MenACWY vaccination is essential for pilgrims travelling to KSA for Umrah and Hajj, particularly given recent cases among UK returnees and their families. Meningococcal disease can be fatal and may leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions including hearing loss, brain damage and limb amputations.

Pilgrims should ensure vaccination at least ten days before travel and remain vigilant for symptoms like sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash. If you or anyone at home becomes unwell with any symptoms of meningitis within two weeks of returning from Saudi Arabia, contact your GP or NHS 111, mentioning your recent travel history, or dial 999 in case of emergency.

Dr Sahira Dar, President of the British Islamic Medical Association, said:

During Hajj and Umrah, millions of people gather in very close proximity during the pilgrim rights, in accommodation sites and on public transport.  This means that there is a much higher risk of contracting infectious diseases such as meningitis which is a serious illness.  We highly recommend that everyone going on Hajj and Umrah receive their MenACWY vaccine which could protect them and their loved ones back home.

UKHSA is also advising pilgrims about Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). While risk to UK travellers remains low, pilgrims should:

• avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products
• avoid contact with camels and animal waste
• practise good hygiene, particularly washing hands after visiting farms, barns or markets

Should fever, coughing or breathing difficulties develop within 2 weeks of leaving Saudi Arabia, contact a GP or NHS 111, mentioning recent travel history and any contact with respiratory cases, healthcare facilities or camels during travel.

Further information on vaccinations and travel health precautions for KSA is available on the NaTHNaC website.