Investigations are underway to determine the extent of West Nile virus activity after nine human infections were recently confirmed - Leipzig has reported seven to date, while both Meissen and Berlin recorded one each. In related news, Dutch authorities have confirmed the presence of WNV in a bird caught in Utrecht, saying the infection was most probably acquired in the Netherlands which ‘corroborates the further expansion of WNV circulation in Europe’. Elsewhere, Spain has recorded its fourth WNV-related death (from 49 confirmed cases) this year in an 87yo woman from Puerto Real in the province of Cadiz. Read more
Advice for travellers
Most human WNV infections (70-80%) are mild, subclinical or asymptomatic, but around 1-in-150 cases involve potentially severe neuroinvasive disease. The virus is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which feed mainly around dawn and dusk. While the risk of infection for most travellers is generally low, those visiting regions reporting human cases, particularly the peak transmission season, should take measures to avoid mosquito bites. Read more on WNV.
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.