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Netherlands Beats Barcelona, Paris, Lisbon and Brussels are Facing New Massive Outbreaks Jeopardizing and Booming Travel Chaos and Making it Dangerous and Unsafe for Tourists in 2026: What You Need to Know
In early 2026 the public health picture across Europe was shaped by a series of outbreaks that were documented by national health agencies and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. This report has been compiled by examining official surveillance summaries and reports from government sources. The goal was to identify which European cities and regions faced the most significant outbreaks and to present the findings in plain language. It has been written in third-person perspective and passive voice, with an emphasis on clarity and caution. The outbreak landscape in 2026 included respiratory illnesses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, skin and mucosal infections such as mpox and measles, gastrointestinal infections like norovirus and rotavirus, foodborne contamination through toxin-producing bacteria, and climate-driven vector-borne risks. Each category has been explored using evidence from official sources, and care has been taken to avoid exaggeration while still using engaging language. For context, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reported high respiratory illness activity in several countries and detailed the spread of mpox across multiple member states[1][2]. The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment observed that general practitioner visits for flu-like symptoms rose above the epidemic threshold[3]. Official reports from the UK Health Security Agency noted marked increases in norovirus and rotavirus activity[4]. Food safety agencies issued a global recall of infant nutrition products due to a Bacillus cereus toxin[5][6]. A European Commission article about climate change warned that mosquitoes capable of spreading dengue and chikungunya were expanding their range in central and northern Europe[7]. These official observations form the basis of this analytical overview, which has been structured around key themes and locations to help readers understand where public health efforts were focused in 2026. Understanding these patterns helps authorities plan health resources, adapt, and protect vulnerable populations during crises.
Rising influenza activity in the Netherlands
Reports from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment indicated 51 visits per 100,000 inhabitants, above the epidemic threshold of 46[3]. Infection Radar samples showed 13 percent positivity and samples taken by doctors indicated 37 percent[3]. Laboratories found 18–22 percent of specimens contained influenza viruses[3]. These figures suggested that urban centres like Amsterdam and Rotterdam were experiencing heightened transmission. The country prepared for a potential influenza epidemic by encouraging vaccination and continued monitoring. Public announcements emphasised hand hygiene and staying home when ill. Planning for hospital surge capacity was initiated.
Widespread respiratory virus activity in the EU/EEA
High levels of respiratory illness were detected across the EU/EEA in early 2026[1]. Influenza A predominated and hospitalisations were decreasing, though older adults still needed care[1]. Children aged five to fourteen were the main transmitters[1]. These trends were observed in cities such as Paris, Rome and Berlin. The ECDC advised that vaccination and public awareness campaigns remain essential to control these viruses. Continued surveillance allowed trends to be tracked and resources to be allocated where needed. For example, schools were considered hotspots and public venues were closely watched across many nations during winter.
Mpox surge centred in Spain
Spain experienced the most notable mpox cluster in early 2026. The ECDC documented 66 cases[2], and 28 were classified as clade Ib[2]. Most infections occurred in urban areas such as Madrid and Barcelona. Public health authorities implemented contact tracing and awareness campaigns, and clinicians were advised to recognise symptoms. Most cases were mild and manageable with isolation measures. Spain’s response was considered proactive, and information sharing ensured that neighbouring countries were alerted to potential spread. This coordination helped prevent wider dissemination across Europe. Lessons were shared through regional networks to improve ongoing preparedness and vigilance.
Germany’s mpox cases and measles concerns
Germany recorded 21 mpox cases in early 2026[2], and one was clade Ib[2]. Cases were reported in Berlin, Hamburg and Munich. The ECDC also noted that measles persisted across the EU, with eighty‑three cases and ten deaths reported in the preceding year[8]. Four deaths occurred in France, five in Romania and one in the Netherlands[8]. Germany continued childhood vaccination campaigns and reminded travellers to be immunised. Hospitals prepared isolation facilities for both mpox and measles in case of increased transmission. Public messages emphasised vaccination and early symptom reporting, and awareness continued.
Italy’s mpox cluster and the Winter Games context
Italy recorded 17 mpox cases in early 2026[2], five of which were clade Ib[2]. Milan and Rome reported the most cases. Surveillance coincided with preparation for the Milan‑Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, which attracted international visitors. The ECDC monitored public health risks and reported that by 5 February no major outbreaks were linked to the Games[9]. Nevertheless, staff remained on alert and communication channels were strengthened. Visitors were advised to practice good hygiene and seek medical attention if symptoms appeared. Such vigilance helped maintain confidence in the safety of the event throughout.
Mpox in Portugal, France and the Netherlands
Beyond Spain and Germany, mpox cases were confirmed in Portugal, France and the Netherlands. Portugal reported 19 cases, France 11 and the Netherlands 12[2]. Clade Ib cases were detected, with France reporting three and the Netherlands two[2]. Infections were scattered across cities such as Lisbon, Paris, Marseille, Amsterdam and Utrecht. Public health agencies used targeted messaging to alert high‑risk populations and to encourage early testing. France recorded four measles‑related deaths in the preceding year[8], and the Netherlands documented one[8]. These figures underscored the need for vaccination and surveillance in Western Europe.
Norovirus outbreaks in England
England saw a sharp rise in norovirus infections at the start of 2026. The UK Health Security Agency reported that laboratory‑confirmed cases were 50.6 percent higher than the five‑season average[4]. A total of 147 outbreaks were recorded in hospitals, with 89.8 percent confirmed as norovirus[10]. Seventeen outbreaks occurred in weeks four and five[11]. Elderly care facilities were affected. Public health advice emphasised hand hygiene, isolation of ill patients and thorough cleaning. The surge highlighted the vulnerability of closed settings such as hospitals and nursing homes and underscored the importance of infection control.
Rotavirus trends across Europe
Rotavirus, another gastroenteric virus, was monitored across Europe. The UK Health Security Agency documented 1,211 positive reports early in 2026, 10.1 percent higher than the five‑season average[12]. Laboratory reports decreased by 18 percent during weeks four and five, suggesting that the peak might have been passing[12]. Infants and young children were the most affected. Vaccination programmes reduced severe cases, but mild illness still occurred. Healthcare providers reminded caregivers about vaccinating infants and maintaining careful hygiene when changing diapers. Paediatric hospitals in London, Dublin and Glasgow prepared for seasonal increases and closely monitored bed occupancy.
Foodborne risk from Bacillus cereus toxin
A multi-country recall of infant nutrition products was initiated in December 2025 and January 2026 due to contamination with a toxin produced by Bacillus cereus. The European Food Safety Authority explained that the cereulide toxin can cause nausea, vomiting and stomach pain[6]. Five infants in Belgium tested positive for the toxin, but severe complications were not reported[5]. Parents were advised not to use the recalled formula[13]. Supermarkets in cities such as Brussels and Antwerp removed affected products, leading to temporary shortages. This recall highlighted the importance of supply chain oversight and swift public alerts.
Climate-driven vector-borne disease risk
A European Commission article on climate change highlighted the spread of the Asian tiger mosquito, a vector for dengue, chikungunya and Zika[7]. Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall were expected to make cities such as London, Zagreb, Frankfurt, Paris and Vienna more suitable for this mosquito[7]. Mid‑sized cities could face high risk if surveillance is not improved. Western Europe’s worst dengue outbreak occurred in 2024[7], serving as a warning. Although no recent outbreaks had been reported by early 2026, public health agencies were preparing vector control strategies and issuing travel advisories to mitigate risk.
Collaboration and community engagement
The complex outbreak landscape demanded strong collaboration among national and regional public health bodies. The ECDC provided platforms for data sharing and coordinated risk assessments. National agencies such as RIVM and UKHSA issued regular bulletins to keep healthcare providers informed. Local health departments encouraged community engagement through vaccination campaigns, hygiene promotion and timely reporting of symptoms. Surveillance at mass gatherings, such as the Winter Olympic Games, was reinforced[9]. Cross‑border digital tools were used to share alerts rapidly. Community feedback was valued to tailor messages, and cooperation with international partners strengthened resilience across Europe across many sectors and disciplines.
| Category | Examples of cities / countries | Key figures and notes | Source |
| Influenza / RSV | Netherlands (Amsterdam, Rotterdam); EU/EEA wide | 51 GP visits per 100k; 13–37 percent positive samples; high in schools; older adults hospitalised | RIVM[3]; ECDC[1] |
| Mpox | Spain (Madrid, Barcelona), Germany (Berlin, Hamburg), Italy (Milan), Portugal (Lisbon), France (Paris), Netherlands (Amsterdam) | Spain 66 cases with 28 clade Ib; Germany 21 cases; Italy 17; Portugal 19; France 11; Netherlands 12; deaths rare | ECDC[2] |
| Measles | Romania, France, Netherlands | 83 cases in 12 countries; 10 deaths (5 in Romania, 4 in France, 1 in Netherlands) | ECDC[8] |
| Norovirus | England (London, Birmingham, Manchester) | Norovirus lab reports 50.6 percent above five‑season average; 147 outbreaks in hospitals; 89.8 percent confirmed; 17 outbreaks in weeks 4–5 | UKHSA[4][11] |
| Rotavirus | United Kingdom and wider Europe | 1,211 positive reports; 10.1 percent above average; 18 percent decrease in late January | UKHSA[12] |
| Bacillus cereus toxin | Belgium (Brussels, Antwerp) and global recall | Global recall of infant formula; 5 infants positive for toxin; no severe cases | ECDC[5]; EFSA[6] |
| Vector-borne risk | London, Zagreb, Frankfurt, Paris, Vienna | Asian tiger mosquito expansion; worst dengue outbreak recorded in 2024; risk rising in mid-sized cities | European Commission[7] |
In summary, the cities facing the largest outbreaks in 2026 spanned multiple categories of disease. Influenza and other respiratory viruses were prevalent in the Netherlands and throughout the EU, prompting vaccination drives and surveillance. Mpox clusters centred in Spain, Germany, Italy, Portugal, France and the Netherlands required targeted interventions and contact tracing. Measles reminded the continent of the importance of childhood immunisation, with deaths reported in Romania, France and the Netherlands[8]. In England, norovirus outbreaks disrupted hospitals and care homes[4][10]. Rotavirus remained a concern for infants[12]. Food safety agencies faced the challenge of managing a global recall due to Bacillus cereus toxin[5][6]. Rising temperatures expanded the range of mosquito vectors, and climate models suggested that cities in central Europe may soon encounter dengue and chikungunya[7].
All these events underscored that urban environments can act as hubs for varied pathogens. Outbreaks arise where there are many susceptible people and high mobility. The importance of robust public health infrastructure cannot be overstated. Early detection, rapid information sharing, vaccination, and community engagement were shown to reduce transmission. Government-verified data allowed health authorities to allocate resources effectively and maintain public trust. The 2026 experience demonstrated that disease trends can change quickly. Therefore continuous monitoring and adaptability remain essential. While the outbreaks described were managed, the potential for further waves exists, especially if environmental conditions favour vectors or if vaccination coverage declines. European cities must keep their guard up and sustain cooperation across borders.
Sources:
[1] [5] [9] 2026-WCP-0006 Draft.docx
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/Communicable-disease-threats-report-week-6-2026.pdf
[2] [8] 2026-WCP-0003 Draft.docx
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/Communicable-disease-threats-report-week-3-2026.pdf
[3] Many people with flu in the Netherlands: epidemic seems likely | RIVM
https://www.rivm.nl/en/news/many-people-with-flu-in-netherlands-epidemic-seems-likely
[4] [10] [11] [12] National norovirus and rotavirus report, week 6 report: data up to week 5 (data up to 1 February 2026) – GOV.UK
https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/national-norovirus-and-rotavirus-surveillance-reports-2025-to-2026-season/national-norovirus-and-rotavirus-report-week-6-report-data-up-to-week-5-data-up-to-1-february-2026
[6] [13] Precautionary global recall of infant nutrition products following detection of Bacillus cereus toxin | EFSA
https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/news/precautionary-global-recall-infant-nutrition-products-following-detection-bacillus-cereus
[7] Paris, Vienna, Zagreb and other European cities will be at more risk of dengue, Zika and chikungunya outbreaks as climate change expands mosquito range
https://environment.ec.europa.eu/news/paris-vienna-zagreb-and-other-european-cities-will-be-more-risk-dengue-zika-and-chikungunya-2026-01-14_en
