Six African countries reported cVDPV2 cases to the GPEI: 16 of the weekly total of 32 were logged by Côte d’Ivoire, the remainder by Burkina Faso, Niger, South Sudan, Sudan and Somalia. Yemen registered two cVDPV1 cases in Sanaa City and Saadah, while Afghanistan reported two WPV1 cases and 24 cVDPV2 cases and Pakistan’s tally for the week was 21 cVDPV2 cases. In other news, an Interim guidance document has been published by the WHO, offering context and policy guidance on the use of the Novel Oral Polio Vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) during the Initial Use Period.
Advice for travellers
Poliomyelitis is a potentially serious viral illness that is spread through contact with infected faeces or saliva. The risk to travellers is generally low, however vaccination is recommended for travel to affected regions and is a requirement for travel to/from some countries. If at risk, adults should have a booster to the childhood series. More on polio.
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.