Last year, cholera deaths exceeded those caused by COVID-19 since early 2020, with more than 3,600 recorded from over 111,000 suspected cases, the highest count in several years. Northern states including Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano and Zamfara were particularly hard hit, logging over half of all cholera infections. Read more
A YEAR-on-year increase in Lassa fever infections over one 7-day period this month saw more than 220 suspected cases and two deaths recorded across 10 states, and this followed a late spike in cases in December 2021. While 17 states recorded Lassa fever cases last year, 83 percent of all infections were from Edo, Ondo and Bauchi. Read more
Advice for travellers
Lassa fever is a low risk for most travellers. Rodents shed the virus in urine and droppings and it’s then passed on to humans through direct contact, touching objects or eating food contaminated with these materials, or through cuts or sores. While Lassa fever is mild or has no observable symptoms in about 80% of people infected with the virus, the remaining 20% have a severe multisystem disease. Read more about Lassa fever.
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.