Influenza cases brought back by travellers have fueled infection trends resulting in more than 26,000 cases reported nationwide this year – ‘South Australia is leading the per capita trend’, according to an ABC article. With 92 measles infections confirmed across the country this year (only 11 fewer than the entire 2018 total), the federal Health Minister has announced a campaign aimed at travellers, advising those born after 1966 to check their immunisation status before departure to ensure they have received two doses of the (free) vaccine. Read more (See more measles news under UK post)
MOSQUITO bite avoidance measures are recommended for travel to the Greater Darwin region and east Arnhem land after ‘widespread Kunjin virus activity’ was detected. A Mar 29 health department media release noted that ‘the high risk period for Kunjin virus is from February to the end of July, and mosquito numbers are expected to increase following this week’s rain’. This is also the season when Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) virus activity is present.
Advice for travellers
Seasonal flu is the most common vaccine-preventable travel-related illness because it is a potential risk during every stage of the journey. Whether you are travelling within Australia or overseas, Travelvax recommends vaccination, when available, for all travellers over 6 months of age. Read more about influenza.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.