The WHO is providing assistance to government agencies to enforce efforts needed to contain the ongoing hepatitis E outbreak. Infections have been recorded in half of all regions: up to mid-October there have been 3,630 cases, many of those in Windhoek and Swakopmund. Read more
Advice for travellers
The hepatitis E virus is transmitted mainly through faecal contamination of drinking water. Infection during the latter stages of pregnancy carries a higher rate of severe disease and mortality. Unlike the Hep A and B viruses, there is no vaccine for this strain, which is especially common in communities with lower levels of sanitation and hygiene. Read more about hepatitis E.
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.