The latest WHO global influenza update takes in data to July 24, advising increasing levels of elevated flu-like activity in Samoa and Kiribati, while New Caledonia and Wallis and Futuna reported smaller increases. In temperate areas of the southern hemisphere and in SE Asia, flu detections decreased and they remained stable in Southern Asia. In a separate report, the Solomon Islands health department has reported the circulation of several respiratory viruses in the community, including flu (H3), rhinovirus and adenovirus. Read more
ON AUGUST 11 the Ministry of Health Samoa announced it was investigating a spike in the number of young children presenting with fever and rash, possibly indicating transmission of chickenpox and hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). Read more
Advice for travellers
In most years, 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. Whether you are travelling within Australia or overseas, 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.