Following on from the news of a diphtheria outbreak in four districts of Guinea’s northern Kankan region (now with 117 suspected cases, 37 deaths), the African CDC reported on a surge in cases in southern Niger. More than 270 diphtheria cases and nine deaths have been confirmed in Matamaye health district, Zinder region. Read more
Advice for travellers
Spread by coughing and sneezing or by direct contact with wounds or items soiled by infected persons, diphtheria is one of the infectious diseases prevented through routine childhood vaccination. It is also a component in the vaccine given to pregnant women for the prevention of pertussis. Read more on diphtheria.
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.