Late last week the WHO published an assessment on the risk posed to humans by the highly pathogenic avian influenza strain A(H5N6) (HPAI), which has this year been responsible for 26 infections (25 in China and one in Laos) - almost all had exposure to poultry. The H5N6 strain is one of several HPAI viruses which has been reported in up to 40 countries, following wild bird migration patterns. An AFluDiary post observed that, ‘Given the continual evolution of avian flu viruses - and their ability to reassort amongst themselves - new threats can always arise with little warning’. In other news on flu, the ECDC released its first influenza report this season for the European region: ‘86% type A viruses, with A(H3N2) 97%) dominating’, as detections increased steeply compared to last year and are now ‘close to the more usual number of detections seen in earlier seasons’. And in the USA, an uptick in flu activity has been reported by the CDC, mainly due to H3N2 infections in children and young adults (ages five years to 24).
Advice for travellers
There are several strains of bird flu and while the high pathogenic strains can be fatal, infection generally poses a low risk for travellers – even for those heading to a region where the disease is present or an outbreak is occurring. Travellers should avoid contact with birds or poultry in marketplaces, wash hands thoroughly before and after preparing food, and observe strict personal hygiene. Read more on bird flu and how to avoid it.
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.