Due to illness among a small number of Norwegian Cruise Line guests, they were prevented from disembarking at Port Louis with concerns of cholera – while Mauritian health authorities mandated testing as a precautionary measure. The passengers were found to not have cholera. There have been approximately 3,000 deaths from cholera across southern African countries over the past year. Read more
Advice for travellers
Gastroenteritis is common in developing countries: WHO estimates there are 1.8 million deaths among the 1.7 billion cases of diarrheal disease worldwide each year. Rotaviruses and E. coli are the most common cause, however agents can range from bacteria, viruses, parasites, toxins and chemicals that contaminate food or water. Diarrheal diseases are more serious in children: they are the second leading cause of death in children under 5 years old. Read more
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.