The GPEI’s June 9 polio update confirmed the two latest wild poliovirus type 1 cases in Pakistan (reported here last week) – a total of eight this year in North Waziristan where vaccine refusals and fake verification markings are common. The update also announced Eritrea’s first circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) case, with onset of paralysis on 3 September 2021. The strain has links to Nigeria, but more recently it was detected in Sudan. Other countries reporting cVDPV2 cases: Nigeria (Zamfara and Katsina states) and Yemen (28 cases from 12 locations), while Madagascar logged four cVDPV1 cases (Sofia and Menabe). Read more
Advice for travellers
Poliomyelitis is a potentially serious viral illness that is spread through contact with infected faeces or saliva. The risk to travellers is generally low, however vaccination is recommended for travel to affected regions and is a requirement for travel to/from some countries. If at risk, adults should have a booster to the childhood series. More on polio.
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.