CDC influenza reporting for the week to Nov 9 notes early season, high influenza-like illness (ILI) activity in Louisiana and moderate in five other SE states (Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, South Carolina), plus Puerto Rico. Overall, ILI activity is described as being below baseline levels. The CDC notes ‘significant cocirculation of influenza A(H3N2), A(H1N1)pdm09 and B/Victoria viruses with the predominant virus varying by region and age group’. NSW Health earlier this month recommended travellers heading into the Northern Hemisphere winter consider having a (second) flu vaccination for the year – particularly for high risk groups. The northern flu vaccine may not be available here so, as ‘the best option to protect yourself prior to travel’, have our current vaccine at least two weeks before departure. Read more
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.