Authorities in Nigeria are on the alert for two formulations of counterfeit meningococcal vaccines which it is feared may be imported from Niger. The fake ACWY and ACW polysaccharide vaccines were detected in some Niamey pharmacies during scheduled inspections performed as part of a vaccination campaign in the Republic of Niger aimed at protecting children from serotype A infection. Read more
Advice for travellers
Meningococcal meningitis is an acute bacterial disease transmitted from person-to-person through close (kissing, sharing eating utensils) or extended contact. Risk factors include extensive travel in crowded conditions or extended contact with local people in crowded places. If planning to travel to any region experiencing an outbreak, discuss whether vaccination against meningococcal meningitis would be appropriate for your itinerary with your doctor. Read more about Men. meningitis.
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.