The GPEI reported a single confirmed cVDPV2 case last week – from Loh-Djiboua in the Côte d’Ivoire, while cVDPV2 positive environmental samples were obtained from sites in Guinea (Conakry), Senegal (Dakar) and in Nigeria (states of Borno, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa and Yobe). On a global level for the year to Dec 14, five cases of wild poliovirus had been recorded (138 in 2020), and 484 infections were due to circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cf. 809 in 2020).
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.