NHS data shows record summer for bites and stings - here’s how to stay protected for your next adventure

A record summer for bites and stings

As temperatures soared across the UK this summer, so did the number of people seeking help for insect bites and stings.
According to new NHS data, online searches spiked during the heatwaves — a clear sign that insects are active in more places and for longer seasons.

We often think of repellents as a “holiday only” item, but warmer UK weather means bite protection is increasingly a year-round essential — both at home and abroad.

Why insect activity is increasing

Rising temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, midges and ticks. These insects aren’t just irritating; some species can transmit diseases such as dengue and Lyme disease. Even in the UK, milder winters help more insects survive and emerge earlier each spring.

For a deeper look at why effective, skin-friendly protection matters, hear our founder’s perspective in the IMH Media Podcast with Howard Carter.

🎧 Listen to the full episode here.

What this means for travellers

Planning a winter-sun escape, long-haul adventure or early spring break? Insect protection should sit alongside sun cream and passports on your packing list. From city breaks and beach holidays to rainforest treks, a simple routine helps you stay comfortable and bite-free so you can focus on the trip — not the itch.

How to protect yourself, naturally

incognito® offers natural, clinically tested repellents and travel essentials designed for reliable protection with a light footprint. To keep things effortless, follow our simple four-part routine from getting skin “trip-ready” to staying protected day and night. Explore the full guide to avoiding insect bites with our CLOAK method.

Our repellents are scientifically tested to provide 100% protection for at least four hours and good protection for up to eight hours against mosquitoes that can carry dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, Zika and more.*

Looking ahead: travel smart, travel protected

Whether you’re booking winter sun or planning next summer early, now’s the time to organise your travel health essentials. Stay informed, pack smart and enjoy every moment outdoors — wherever you roam.

👉 Next up: explore our Travel Essentials Hub for destination tips, sustainable packing advice and natural protection that works.

*Clinically tested to provide 100% protection for at least 4 hours and good protection for up to 8 hours against mosquitoes that can carry dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, Zika and more.
*Nielsen data 2024 (refers to the #1 claim).