Social distancing and enhanced hygiene measures continue to have a beneficial effect on influenza activity - confirmed infections in May dropped from 30,372 in 2019 to 197 this year (monthly May average over the previous five years was ~2,400), according to stats published by the Immunisation Coalition. This picture is reflected on a global level: Of the influenza samples obtained from 62 reporting countries through FluNet in the week to May 10, only 0.084 percent tested positive compared with 9.6 percent for a similar period in 2019. A ProMED post’s moderator questions whether ‘influenza surveillance [is] being impacted by the intense demands of the COVID-19 pandemic? Or more importantly, are the influenza circulation patterns being displaced by SARS-CoV-2?’. Overall, low or no influenza detected were reported in most regions and activity was at or below inter-seasonal levels in temperate regions of the southern hemisphere. More in the WHO summary.
Advice for travellers
Seasonal flu is the most common vaccine-preventable travel-related illness because it is a potential risk during every stage of the journey. Whether you are travelling within Australia or overseas, Travelvax recommends vaccination for all travellers over 6 months of age. Read more about influenza.
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.