As the case count in the Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak climbs to 598 confirmed and probable cases (with 363 deaths), the continuing unrest has caused a halt in vaccinations in Goma, Beni, Butembo, Katwa, Komanda and Mabalako. In the latest WHO update, the agency notes that ‘Katwa, Komanda and Mabalako remain the main hot spots of the outbreak’ and concludes with: ‘Five months following the confirmation of the first case of EVD the outbreak is still ongoing, with almost a fifth of the total case load reported in the past 21 days’. The WHO ‘continues to respond and remains committed to ending the outbreak’. Read more
Advice for travellers
Ebola Virus disease is a severe viral haemorrhagic fever found in humans and other primates (such as monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees). It spreads through families and friends in close contact with blood and infectious secretions of people with obvious symptoms and, as such, presents a low risk to tourists to the affected countries. Read more about Ebola virus disease.
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.