The health department is tasked with bringing a halt to the extensive measles outbreak and, as the end of the annual dry (plague) season approaches, it has also announced a total of 93 bubonic plague cases and a further 14 of the pneumonic type, with 31 resulting deaths since August last year. A news report states that the cities of Antananarivo and Toamasina have not been affected, unlike last season. Read more. A confirmed case of pneumonic plague and another considered probable, who were taken across the border for treatment in the district of Zombo in Uganda’s NW, are related to several reported deaths in the DRC’s neighbouring province of Ituri. More than 50 high-risk contacts of the infected women are under treatment. Read more
Advice for travellers
Plague occurs annually in Madagascar, but poses a low risk to most travellers. Most cases of plague are due to bubonic plague following the bite of an infected flea carried by rats. If left untreated, infection of the lungs causes the pneumonic form of plague, a severe respiratory illness, which can progress rapidly to death. Read more on the plague.
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.