The case count in the 30 month-long hepatitis A outbreak that has spread person-to-person across 30 states (two have declared an end to theirs) has risen above 25,000 (25,484 according to the CDC on Sept 6) – almost two-thirds of people infected have required hospitalisation. The death toll now sits at 254.
Advice for travellers
Vaccine-preventable Hepatitis A (HAV) is one of the most common infections affecting travellers. The virus is transmitted by the oral-faecal route, such as through contaminated food and water, and sexual contact. A course of hepatitis A vaccine offers immunity that’s 99%-plus effective and long lasting (20-30 years). It is also important to follow safe food and water guidelines.
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.