The rise in mosquito-borne infections reported during the annual monsoon season is being seen in some areas already, with local medical facilities in Pune on alert for an influx of dengue fever cases, along with warnings that conditions are ideal for the spread of malaria in parts of Maharashtra. In the country’s north-east, there are reports of Japanese encephalitis cases in the district of West Garo Hills in Meghalaya and malaria in Tripura. Read more
Advice for travellers
A mosquito-borne virus, JE is usually found in many part of Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and China, although cases also occur in Indonesia and PNG. It is mainly found in rural areas around rice paddies where pigs, wading birds and humans live closely together, however it does also occur in or near cities. The risk to short-stay travellers who confine their travel to urban centres and use appropriate mosquito bite avoidance measures is low. The recommendations for vaccination are itinerary-specific. Read more on JE.
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.