Interruptions to routine immunisation programs during the pandemic have led to a spike in measles cases, with a health ministry official announcing at least 3,945 cases between June last year and early May 2023. DTP3 vaccination coverage has declined to just over 80 percent. In other news on measles, a vaccination campaign is planned to run through June and July in Cameroon in response to a ‘worrisome’ epidemiological situation which has produced more than 4,600 measles cases and 18 deaths. Japan’s health minister has announced two locally acquired measles cases in Tokyo, the first in three years. Both cases were in adults who were seated in the same train carriage as an infectious individual who had returned from overseas. Lastly, new measles case numbers have declined in Mumbai, India, and there are fewer serious infections due to immunisation drives launched after the spike in cases last year. Read more
Advice for travellers
Measles occurs in developing and developed countries and unvaccinated travellers are at particular risk, both in transit and during their stay. While generally benign, infection can result in severe illness or death. Travelvax Australia recommends travellers check their immunisation status for measles and other childhood diseases such as diphtheria, whooping cough (pertussis) and mumps at least 6 weeks before departure. Read more about measles.
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.