From an April 18 Health Surveillance Directorate update on the spread of P. falciparum malaria in Huetar Caribbean region: confirmed cases had risen to 116, ‘57 cases in Pococí, 55 in the canton Limón, two in Matina, one in Guácimo and one case in Siquirres’. The ministry advised that the outbreak has been contained but asks anyone who visited the region in the week to April 8 to monitor their health for symptoms indicative of malaria infection. And in Panama, a year-on-year increase in malaria cases is likely after more than 3,300 infections were recorded in the latest update. The top three regions for positive cases were Guna Yala, Darién and Ngäbe Buglé. Read more
Advice for travellers
Travelvax recommends that travellers visiting malarious regions discuss their itinerary and the possible need for anti-malaria medication during a pre-travel medical consultation. More on malaria.
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.