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The Disease
Influenza A and B are the major types of influenza viruses, causing human
upper respiratory disease. Classic symptoms include fever, lethargy,
muscle aches and pains, and a cough. Antibiotics are ineffective against
the influenza virus.
Where is it found?
Epidemics of influenza occur during the winter and spring months in most
years. Influenza virus infections cause disease in all age groups. Rates
of infection are highest among children, but rates of serious illness and
death are highest among the elderly and persons of any age who have
medical conditions that place them at high risk for complications from
influenza. Influenza viruses also can cause global epidemics of disease,
known as pandemics, during which rates of severe illness and death from
influenza-related complications can increase dramatically.
Risk to travellers
The risk for exposure to influenza during travel to foreign countries
varies depending on the time of year and destination. In the tropics,
influenza can occur throughout the year. In the southern hemisphere most
activity occurs from April through September. In the northern hemisphere
most activity occurs from November through March. Recommendations
for travelers to countries experiencing avian influenza outbreaks can be
found at www.smartraveller.gov.au
Travelvax
recommends vaccination be considered for travellers who:
- are over 65
years of age.
- have a chronic
heart or lung condition.
- travel with
large tourist groups (particularly trains, buses, cruise ships).
- business
travellers who wish to avoid lost time.
NB - Vaccination is
recommended every 12 months. If travelling to a different hemisphere the
types or strains of flu virus circulating may differ from the hemisphere
from which you have travelled. If you have been vaccinated recently
against influenza, it is advisable to check if the strain of the virus at
your destination is covered by the vaccine you have received.
Vaccination
Type:
- Inactivated
virus vaccine
Standard Schedule:
Level of
protection:
- 6 to 9 months
protection against main influenza viruses each season.
(Will not protect against the common cold viruses.)
Possible side effects:
Usually infrequent and mild:
- Soreness at the
injection site.
- 15- 20% may
experience fever, lethargy and muscle aches.
NB: contrary to
popular myth, the influenza vaccine cannot cause influenza.
As with all vaccines, there is a small risk of allergic reaction.
More information on Influenza is available during your
pre-travel consultation with Travelvax. Call 1300 360 164 for the
location of the clinic nearest to you.
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