The cholera outbreak peaked over three months ago and the NCDC is now reporting around 80 new suspected cases per week instead of the 7,500 seen in July. The outbreak total has now exceeded 100,000 cases, with four northern states recording just over half of all infections – Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano and Zamfara. In neighbouring Cameroon, cholera infections reported in and around the SW district of Bamusso have authorities on alert, with the area affected by ‘insecurity and humanitarian crisis’. And a cholera outbreak recently declared in Togo has implications for Benin as the site in the Lacs health district boasts a large market frequented by border communities.
Advice for travellers
Cholera is usually spread in contaminated water. For most short-stay travel, the risk of infection is low. Travellers to regions where a cholera outbreak is occurring should adhere to strict personal hygiene guidelines and choose food and beverages with care. Read more about cholera.
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.