WHO influenza data for the week to Feb 14 reveals that more testing hasn’t detected more flu – detections of influenza A and B viruses were sporadic and most northern countries had rates below baseline. Among countries in the temperate zone reporting sporadic detections, more influenza B was seen in Oman and Saudi Arabia, while it was influenza A(H3N2) in Armenia and the UAE. In tropical zones, SE Asia recorded influenza A(H3N2) activity in Laos, Thailand, East Timor and Vietnam. See more reports from tropical zones here.
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.