Reminders to avoid any contact with bats as they may be infected with rabies follow the death of a young man from Vancouver Island earlier this month. It is believed he acquired the viral infection in May while outdoors during the day when a bat ‘ran into his hand’ - he started suffering typical rabies symptoms some six weeks later. A rare occurrence, his is only the second death from rabies in the province since recording began 95 years ago. More on rabies in Canada. Read more
ALL FIVE health zones in the province of Alberta have recorded steep rises in infectious syphilis with some districts recording increases up to 10 times the 2014 figures. New infections are now at a 60-year high. Recent, smaller outbreaks have also been registered in Quebec, Ontario and Manitoba.
Advice for travellers
Rabies is present in most countries and all travellers should be aware of the importance of avoiding contact with wild and domestic animals. If bitten or scratched, urgent post-exposure treatment is required. Vaccination is normally recommended for longer stays, especially travellers planning to live in, or travel extensively through, rural areas and also for children; however the final recommendation is itinerary-specific. Read more on rabies.
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.