Over the past fortnight a single wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) case was reported to the GPEI by Afghanistan (Nangarhar province), while circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) infections were logged by Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, DRC, Mali and Nigeria. There were also 15 cVDPV1 cases in total from the DRC and Madagascar (three in total from Analamanga, Androy and Sud-Ouest). Read more
Advice for travellers
Poliomyelitis is a potentially serious viral illness that is spread through contact with infected faeces or saliva. The risk to travellers is generally low, however vaccination is recommended for travel to affected regions and is a requirement for travel to/from some countries. If at risk, adults should have a booster to the childhood series. More on polio.
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.