This week the influenza round up describes a gradual increase in case reporting with group A viruses responsible for 78 percent of confirmed infections. Israel was the only jurisdiction to report high activity in FluNewsEurope, while medium levels were seen in Latvia, Austria, Switzerland, Slovenia, Georgia, Albania, North Macedonia and Greece. The ECDC report also advised that ‘Circulating viruses remain susceptible to the neuraminidase inhibitors’. While in the USA, the CDC reported moderate to high levels of influenza-like illness in all but nine states (Alaska, Delaware, Indiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Ohio and Idaho) – testing has seen two flu viruses detected at similar rates - B/Victoria and A/H1N1pdm09.
Advice for travellers
Seasonal flu is the most common vaccine-preventable travel-related illness: it’s likely to be found aboard aircraft, in crowded airport terminals, and at your destination. Vaccination is highly recommended and travellers should also avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms, and thoroughly washing hands using soap and water after using the toilet and before eating. Alcohol-based hand sanitiser is a convenient alternative if soap and water is not available.
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.