On Sept 25, the WHO announced the recommended influenza strains for the 2021 southern hemisphere season for both egg and cell/recombinant-based vaccines. Accompanying the release is a full report and Q&A. The agency reports that fewer viruses were available for characterisation this year due to decreased influenza activity, which ‘was very low in reporting countries in Oceania with co-circulation of influenza A and influenza B viruses and predominance of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09’. Read more
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 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.