Supplies of cholera vaccines donated by France have arrived to stem the outbreak that continues to evolve, with suspected cases numbering 1,703 including 17 deaths to Oct 31. Infections have spread into all eight governates from the epicentre in the north, which is still the hardest hit. Beirut is now reporting cases and the health minister has warned that without stronger measures to control the outbreak, cholera could become endemic. And in neighbouring Syria, the cholera outbreak death toll has risen to 46 - 39 of the fatal cases were in Aleppo. Read more
Advice for travellers
Cholera is usually spread in contaminated water. For most short-stay travellers, the risk of infection is low. Australians travelling 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.